How to Control Apple Maggots: Tips for Protecting Your Apples

If you have an apple tree in your garden, you know the joy of biting into a crisp, juicy apple picked straight from the branch. But there's nothing worse than finding that your apples are infested with maggots. Apple maggots are a common problem for apple growers, and they can ruin your crop if left unchecked. In this article, we'll explore some tips for controlling apple maggots and protecting your apples.

What Are Apple Maggots?

Apple maggots are the larvae of a type of fly known as the apple maggot fly. These flies lay their eggs on or near apple trees, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the fruit and begin feeding on the flesh. This can lead to significant damage to the apple, making it unpalatable and unsuitable for eating.

Identifying Apple Maggot Damage

It can be hard to spot apple maggots until it's too late. The damage caused by the larvae is usually internal, so you won't see any external signs until the fruit is cut open. Look for small tunnels or burrows in the flesh of the apple, or rust-colored spots on the skin. You may also notice the presence of small black flies around your apple tree.

Preventing Apple Maggots

The best way to control apple maggots is to prevent them from attacking your apples in the first place. Here are some tips:

• Cover your apples with fine mesh bags before the apple maggot fly begins laying its eggs in late June or early July.
• Destroy any infested fruit you find, as the larvae can overwinter in the soil and emerge as adult flies in the spring.
• Remove any fallen fruit from the ground around your apple tree, as this can attract and harbor apple maggot flies.
• Prune your apple tree regularly to encourage good air circulation and sunlight penetration. This will make it less hospitable for apple maggot flies.

Treating Infected Trees

If you already have apple maggots in your apple tree, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the damage:

• Harvest your apples as soon as they ripen, as this will reduce the time the larvae have to feed and cause damage.
• Dispose of any infested fruit immediately, either by burning it or putting it in the trash.
• Apply an insecticide to your apple tree according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to wear protective clothing and follow all safety precautions when using pesticides.
• Consider using natural predators to control apple maggots, such as parasitic wasps or nematodes. These can be purchased from garden supply stores.

Apple maggots can be a frustrating and discouraging problem for apple growers, but with the right techniques and tools, you can protect your apples and ensure a bountiful harvest. Remember to take preventative measures, remove infested fruit, and treat infected trees promptly to minimize damage and keep your apples healthy and delicious.

An example of apple maggots on an apple.

orchard, pest control, fruit flies, organic gardening