Apple blossom weevil

LIFE CYCLE. The apple blossom weevil overwinters in crevices in bark, in piles of wood, under leaves or in other dry, sheltered places outside the orchard, especially in woodland. 

Fig. 5. 53. Life cycle of the apple blossom weevil (Anthonomus pomorum).

ENEMIES. The apple blossom weevil does not have any enemies that control it really effectively. The egg, grub and pupa are very well protected in the blossom. 

INSPECTION AND DAMAGE THRESHOED. The apple blossom weevil is monitored mainly by means of the knockdown test. 

The widely held opinion that the apple blossom weevil is a welcome blossom thinner is not applicable to modern organic fruit production. The blossom weevil cannot be controlled and can thus cause damage even when there is abundant production of blossom buds. 

CONTROL. The pyrethrum-rotenone sprays used against the apple blossom weevil are also effective against the apple fruit rhynchites. The control deadline is much later, however (May-June). 

APPEARANCE. Beetle 4.5-6 mm long, brownish with a light cross-band . Larva 5-7 mm long, creamy white with dark-brown head, more pronounced C shape than the larva of the apple blossom weevil. 

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