Reversing the threats of False Codling Moth

The False Codling Moth (FCM), scientifically known as Thaumatotibia leucotreta, is a pest notorious for its voracious appetite and is widespread across various regions of Kenya. This insidious pest has been wreaking havoc on Kenya’s flowers, posing significant challenges to growers and threatening the stability of the industry.

Originating from Southern Africa, FCM has made its presence felt in Kenyan flower industry targeting a wide array of varieties. Kenya’s flower industry has been a beacon of economic growth, providing livelihoods for millions and supplying varieties that have won hearts in both local and international markets.

The presence of False Codling Moth infestations is inflicting multiple layers of damage to the industry, resulting in significant economic losses and ecological imbalances. FCM larvae enters into the flower bud then burrows downwards feeding on the inside of the stem, causing internal damage that renders the flowers unmarketable.

 This leads to reduced yields and financial losses to farmers, impacting the overall productivity of the sector. “In addition to direct damage, False Codling Moth infestations can indirectly affect flower production by causing stress to plants, reducing their vigor, and making them more susceptible to other pests and diseases,” Amit Kumar Singh, the Group General Manager, PJ Dave Flowers Limited noted.

The company grows over 25 flower varieties on more than 100 hectares resulting in the export of an estimated 80 million stems of roses each year to prime destinations across the world. The farm balances the use of chemical pesticides with biological pest control methods like traps enhancing sustainable f lower production processes.

The presence of False Codling Moth in f lowers triggers quality concerns among importing countries. Strict regulations and quarantine measures are imposed, leading to trade disruptions and loss of market access, further exacerbating the economic strain on farmers and exporters.

 Combatting False Codling Moth therefore requires a multi-faceted approach, integrating cultural, biological, and chemical control methods to effectively manage the infestations and minimize their impact on horticultural crops.

IPM strategies emphasize the use of holistic and sustainable practices to control pests while minimizing environmental impact. This includes cultural practices such as farm sanitation, pruning to disrupt the moth’s lifecycle and reduce breeding sites.

Natural enemies of False Codling Moth, such as parasitic wasps and predatory beetles, play a crucial role in regulating populations. Biological control agents are introduced into farms to prey on FCM larvae and eggs, providing an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Pheromone-based traps are employed to monitor FCM activity and population dynamics in flower farms. By disrupting mating patterns and trapping male moths, these traps serve as an early warning system, allowing farmers to implement targeted control measures when populations exceed threshold levels.

While chemical pesticides remain a key tool in FCM management, their usage must be judicious to minimize negative impacts on human health, beneficial organisms, and the environment.

“Curtailing the menace of False Codling Moth in Kenyan f loriculture demands a comprehensive approach that integrates scientific research, community engagement, and sustainable agricultural practices. By leveraging innovative technologies, such as pheromone based trapping systems and biological control agents, alongside grower education initiatives, we can effectively manage FCM infestations while minimizing environmental impact and ensuring the long-term viability of the flower sector,” said Simon Andys the CEO, of Premier Seed company, a fresh produce production farm Integrated with other control methods, selective insecticides are applied strategically during specific stages of the moth’s lifecycle to achieve maximum efficacy.

“The presence of False Codling Moth in flower farms not only affects the aesthetic quality of blooms but also disrupts production schedules and increases production costs due to the need for stringent pest management measures. False Codling Moth can result in the rejection of flower shipments due to quarantine restrictions imposed by importing countries. This not only impacts individual farms but also undermines the reputation of Kenya’s f lower industry as a whole,” noted Stefano Banella, Crop Manager at Red Lands Roses.

To tackle FCM, the farm that grows close to 200 rose varieties, has embraced conventional, biological and cultural arsenals. Amidst the challenges posed by False Codling Moth interceptions, Kenyan stakeholders are mobilizing efforts to safeguard the integrity of flower exports and restore confidence in global markets.

Enhanced Monitoring and Surveillance: Investing in robust monitoring and surveillance systems is paramount to detecting and mitigating FCM infestations at early stages. Through collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and industry stakeholders, proactive measures can be implemented to minimize interception risks.

Adherence to Best Practices: Embracing best practices in pest management, including integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, is essential for mitigating the risk of False Codling Moth infestations. By adopting sustainable farming practices and adhering to international standards, Kenyan growers can enhance the quality and safety of their produce for global markets.

 Capacity Building and Training: Equipping farmers, exporters, and regulatory authorities with the knowledge and skills to identify and address FCM infestations is critical for safeguarding the competitiveness of Kenyan floricultural exports. Capacity-building initiatives, such as training workshops and technical assistance programs, empower stakeholders to navigate the complexities of international trade while upholding quality export standards.

The battle against False Codling Moth represents a defining moment for Kenya’s flower sector—a test of resilience, innovation, and collective action. As growers and stakeholders unite in their efforts to combat this formidable pest, the path ahead may be fraught with challenges, but it is also brimming with opportunity.

By embracing sustainable practices, fostering knowledge exchange, and championing policy reforms, Kenya stands poised to overcome the FCM threat and chart a course toward a more resilient and prosperous floricultural future.