The major cause of maggot damage to plums and gages is the caterpillar of the plum fruit moth. Thi...The major cause of maggot damage to plums and gages is the caterpillar of the plum fruit moth. This plum fruit moth trap uses the pheromone scent of the female moth to attract and catch male moths. Keep your plum trees maggot free with the plum moth pheromone trap, a simple and effective way to reduce fruit damage caused by plum moths. The pheromone lure attracts male plum moths, stopping them from mating. Helps prevent maggots by disrupting the life cycle of the plum moth. Just hang the trap in your tree and replace the lure after 5 weeks. Pesticide-free and safe for beneficial insects. How It Works: The pheromone lure attracts male plum moths to the trap. The sticky surface inside traps the moths. This reduces the number of male moths and therefore reduces the number of fertilised female moths. The trap should be placed in the garden at the end of May or after petal drop. If the spring weather is exceptionally warm, or in sheltered urban gardens, it may be helpful to install the trap in mid-May. In the garden, one trap can monitor up to three average-sized trees. It should be hung at around head height on the windward side of the tree (or group of trees). Find out how to protect your fruit trees with our guide. The trap contains everything you need for a year, and the refill allows the trap to be used for a second year. Trap:1 trap with hanging wires2 sticky inserts2 pheromone lures Refill:2 sticky inserts2 pheromone lures Trap and Refill:1 trap with hanging wires4 sticky inserts4 pheromone lures 2 × Refill:4 sticky inserts4 pheromone lures
Best current price£7.99from Gardening Naturally UK
This guide is for gardeners experiencing maggot damage to plum and gage trees. The Gardening Naturally PM1 Plum Moth Traps offer a pesticide-free solution to significantly reduce fruit damage by targeting the male plum moth, preventing mating and thus stopping maggot development. A potential caveat is the need for timely replacement of lures to maintain effectiveness.
All features
Model Part Number
PM1
Brand
Gardening Naturally
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How often do I need to replace the pheromone lure?
The pheromone lure should be replaced every 5 weeks to ensure continuous effectiveness in attracting male moths.
When is the best time to set up the traps?
It is recommended to set up the traps at the end of May or after petal drop. In exceptionally warm springs or sheltered urban gardens, consider installing them in mid-May.
How many traps do I need for my trees?
One trap can effectively monitor and help protect up to three average-sized trees. For larger areas or multiple trees, you may need additional traps.
Are these traps safe for bees and other beneficial insects?
Yes, the traps use specific pheromones that attract only male plum moths. They are pesticide-free and safe for bees, ladybugs, and other beneficial garden insects.
What is included in the trap and refill packages?
The initial trap includes 1 trap with hanging wires, 2 sticky inserts, and 2 pheromone lures. Refills typically include 2 sticky inserts and 2 pheromone lures, allowing you to reuse the trap for a second year.
Can I reuse the trap structure?
Yes, the trap structure is designed for reuse. You can purchase refill kits containing sticky inserts and pheromone lures to continue using the trap for subsequent seasons.
How should I store unused pheromone lures?
Unused pheromone lures should be stored in their original sealed packaging in a cool, dry place, ideally refrigerated, to maintain their potency until needed.
Troubleshooting
Trap is not catching moths.
Ensure the pheromone lure is fresh and correctly placed. Verify the trap is hung at the recommended height and location (windward side). Check if the sticky inserts need replacement or if the trap is overloaded.
Maggot damage still present.
Confirm that the trap was installed at the correct time. Lures may need replacing more frequently in high-infestation areas. Ensure enough traps are used for the size of the tree or orchard.
Pheromone lure seems ineffective.
Lures have a limited lifespan once exposed. Ensure they are within their active period (typically 5 weeks) and have been stored correctly before use.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Effectively reduces plum moth population without pesticides.
Safe for beneficial insects and the environment.
Simple to set up and maintain.
Provides a clear, non-chemical method to prevent maggot damage.
Refill options extend the product's usable life.
Cons
Requires timely replacement of pheromone lures every 5 weeks.
May need earlier installation in unusually warm springs.
Effectiveness depends on correct placement and timing.
One trap covers up to three average-sized trees; larger orchards may require multiple units.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Assemble the trap by attaching a sticky insert.
Insert one pheromone lure into the designated holder.
Hang the trap using the provided wires.
Place the trap in your fruit tree around the end of May or immediately after petal drop. In warmer climates or sheltered gardens, consider mid-May installation.
Position the trap at approximately head height on the windward side of the tree or group of trees.
Compatibility:
Primarily designed for plum and gage trees susceptible to plum moth damage.
Suitable for use in home gardens, orchards, and allotment settings.
Care:
Replace the pheromone lure every 5 weeks to maintain its attractiveness.
Replace the sticky inserts when they become full of captured moths.
Store unused lures in a cool, dry place, preferably refrigerated, in their original sealed packaging.
Clean the trap structure periodically if necessary, using a damp cloth.