Moths Damaging Blue Daze in Florida: Codling Moth? Bt Is the Answer

Identifying the Pest

Small moths emerging from soil around Blue Daze (Evolvulus) in Spring Hill, FL, damaging roots. Likely codling moth (Cydia pomonella) or related tortricid. Larvae feed in soil/roots; adults hide in debris.

Why Demon Failed

Demon (cypermethrin) is a pyrethroid—ineffective on soil-dwelling larvae; kills only surface adults. Mothballs (naphthalene) toxic, illegal for outdoor use, wash away.

Effective Treatment: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)

• Products: Dipel, Thuricide, Monterey Bt.
• Apply as soil drench or foliar spray when larvae active.
• Specific to caterpillars; safe for bees, pets, humans.
• Repeat weekly during flight periods.

Cultural Practices

• Remove plant debris and mulch where pupae overwinter.
• Rotate Blue Daze with non-host plants.
• Beneficial nematodes (Steinernema) for soil larvae.