Blueberry: Leafrollers
categories: Blueberry Blueberry Insects Small Fruits
revision date: 2023-04-12 12:00
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Larvae of the orange tortrix and other leafrolling caterpillar species may be found on blueberries. The caterpillars are typically light to dark green with light or dark heads, and are about 3⁄4″ long at maturity. Typical symptoms of leafroller feeding include damaged buds and leaves that are rolled and tied with webbing. Damage to fruit occurs occasionally. Leafroller caterpillars are often active when disturbed, wiggling vigorously or dropping to the ground on a thread. The adult moths are 1⁄2″ to 3⁄4″ long and are brown or mottled tan and rusty brown. Adults of some species, including the orange tortrix, have darker bands across the wings. The orange tortrix overwinters in dead leaves on the plant or on the soil surface.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Pick out and destroy rolled leaves and caterpillars.
- Pinch rolled leaves to kill caterpillars.
- Clean up leaf debris on and under plants.
- Encourage natural enemies of caterpillars including birds, parasitic wasps and flies, and predacious beetles. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill beneficial insects.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Depending on the extent of the infestation, three applications may be necessary: May 15, June 1, June 15.
- These dates may vary—adjust according to first observation.
- Use a spreader-sticker with liquid Bt formulations.
Approved Pesticides
Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.
Additional Images
Photo by: S.M. Fitzpatrick and J.T. Troubridge
Photo by: J.F. Brunner