Pea moth
Pest Caterpillars that eat the peas inside the pods.
What to look for
Pods look normal outside, but opening them reveals small cream caterpillars with black heads and chewed peas, mostly on the side of the pod.
When: June to August.
How to prevent it
- Sow early (March to April) or late (after mid-June) so flowering misses the main moth flight in June and July.
- Cover plants with fine mesh from flowering.
- Hang pheromone traps to see when moths are active.
How to deal with it
- Discard damaged peas, as there is nothing to treat once the caterpillars are inside.
- Check the remaining pods before cooking and pick regularly so damaged pods do not stay on the plant.
Crops it affects
If you choose to use any treatment, use only products approved for UK home gardens, follow the label and avoid spraying open flowers. See all pests and diseases.