Pest & Disease Library · Solutions

Fruit Moth Control in Tomato and Pepper

Fruit-boring caterpillars (such as fruitworm and borers) tunnel into tomato and pepper fruit, causing frass-filled cavities and entry rots that condemn the fruit. They move between crops and flare in warm weather.

Common crops affected

Tomato & Pepper

Why it matters

Larvae make fruit unmarketable and cause early drop, and with several generations a season can cause heavy loss if egg hatch isn't intercepted.

When to act

Target young larvae before they enter fruit; scout eggs and small larvae.

What to look for

Entry holes and frass on fruit
Hollowed, rotting cavities inside
Damaged flowers and buds
Rapid warm-season build-up

How to manage it

Trap to time control to egg hatch; remove dropped fruit.
Apply Larva BioControl / Larva Control at egg hatch each generation.

Recommended Vegalab program

A registered Vegalab encapsulated insecticide for fruit-boring caterpillars — see the Product Finder; zero PHI and zero REI.

Role	Product	Use
Primary control	Larva BioControl	Biological control timed to egg hatch
Rotation partner	Larva Control	Fast natural larvicide

Ask an agronomist Find a distributor Calculate your rate Shop Crop Science

Product claims, rates, and availability vary by jurisdiction; always follow the applicable label.

Frequently asked questions

Once they’re inside the fruit, can I control them?

No — protect against egg-hatch and young larvae, before they bore in.