Box Moth Trap and Refills

Box Moth Trapping Season: Place traps in an area by mid-March and continue until October. It should be noted that the exact time of insect emergence will vary with location and seasonal variation.

How and When to use the Box Moth Traps: Traps should be placed in an open area where the plants susceptible to attack are being grown. The traps should be mounted at a height of 1.5 to 2 metres above the ground.

How Many Box Moth Traps Do I Need?:The current recommended density is 4 traps per hectare; this density is subject to change depending on location and severity of the moth.

Use of Lures:  Do not try to open or pierce the capsule; just place it in the cage on the trap lid.  Dispose of the sachet and used lures well away from the trapping area. Store lures in a cool place away from direct sunlight and heat and do not open until ready to use. Always store lures sealed in original packaging and do not open until you need to use. They will last for 2 years when unopened.

Trap Servicing and Change of Lures: Add approximately 5cm of water with a drop of detergent into the trap bucket. Lures should be changed every 5 weeks. The funnel traps should be emptied weekly to avoid the trap filling and repellency from putrefaction of the caught insects.

Instructions for use:
1. Add water to a depth of 3cm with a small dash of washing up liquid into the bucket of the trap.
2. Attach the funnel to the bucket by aligning the slots on the funnel with the tabs on the bucket and twisting to lock together.
3. Attach the lid to the funnel by aligning the 4 inserts in the lid with the 4 pegs projecting from the top of the funnel. Carefully push the pegs into the holes so that the lid is fully attached.
4. Open one sachet which includes one lure and remove the lure (we recommend using gloves). Remove the cap off the lure cage and place the pheromone lure inside. Refasten the cap.
5. Push the lure cage through the hole in the lid from above so that the cage effectively hangs below the lid.
6. Thread the supplied hanging cord through the two tab-holes on the lid and tie at both ends.
7. Position at a height of around 1.5m – 2m hung either from box trees or a suitable structure such as a post. If traps are placed in trees, ensure that the entrances remain unblocked and free from leaves.
8. Check the traps on a regular basis; at least twice a week. Top up the liquid in the bucket to the 3cm depth as and when required. Lures should be changed every 5 weeks to achieve optimum results.

This moth is a native of East Asia and was first reported in UK gardens in 2011. An important pest of box plants (Buxus spp.), larvae feed on leaves and in severe infestations can cause defoliation and dieback. Currently established in southern England, late instar caterpillars produce webbing ‘tents’ to protect themselves whilst feeding. Early detection and control are necessary as this webbing makes effective control difficult.

Species Name: Cydalima perspectalis