Redbanded Leafroller, Argyrotaenia velutinana (Walker) Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Larvae of the red-banded leafroller occasionally infest grape clusters. This insect overwinters as a pupa. Moths emerge in late April and lay eggs on newly set grape clusters. The larvae eat shallow holes into the berry; they web several berries together and feed on them and the cluster stems. These first-generation larvae mature in early June, pupate and emerge as moths, which lay eggs during June. The second generation larvae emerge and complete development about mid-August. Second generation moths emerge in late August and lay eggs, which give rise to the third generation.

Ordinarily, the third generation of this moth species is the most conspicuous and abundant. The larvae construct webbing within the grape clusters, chewing holes into the berries and feeding on the cluster stems. The third generation may cause considerably more damage than the first two.

Serious infestations of the red-banded leafroller are not common. A few infested clusters may be found every year, and the larvae may be present on other fruit such as apples.

The larva of the red-banded leafroller is a pale green caterpillar and is 5/8 inch long when mature. The adult moth is light brown with an irregular, reddish-brown stripe across each front wing; it is about 1/2 inch long.

Current pesticide recommendations may be found Here

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