Efficacy of 4 mil polypropylene netting for management of Synanthedon myopaeformis in British Columbian apple orchards

Apple clearwing moth (ACM; Synanthedon myopaeformis) is an invasive Sesiidae moth established in the apple growing regions of the Similkameen and Okanagan Valleys, British Columbia. Increasing incidence of infestation and a growing range have underscored the need for more management options for growers. During the 2020, 2021, and 2022 growing seasons, we evaluated the efficacy of 1/6″ (4 mm) square mesh polypropylene insect netting for management of ACM on apple trees. No effect was detected after one season; however, a reduction to 0% infestation with netting application was observed in a second season of use, and larval emergence was reduced by 67-71% in year 3.