Protect your Apples and Pears from Apple Maggot infestations. When your new fruit is about 1” in diameter, or the size of a nickel, (April to early June depending on location) thin the fruit to one per cluster. Slip the opening of the tan colored nylon bag, using your two index fingers, over the remaining fruitlet just enough to completely cover it, without completely expanding the bag. Secure the bag closed by tying the bag opening around the fruit stem. You can also use a small, 3/8” orthodontic (or similar) rubber band to secure the bag closed. To use the rubber band, slip the top of the nylon bag through the rubber band about an inch, open the rubber band and nylon bag together just enough to slip over and an inch or two past the fruit. The fruit will expand and color up within the bag and be completely protected. This product has been used successfully here at Raintree and by many fruit hobbyists. They are quick and easy to use! This years’ new heavier weave bags with reinforced seams may also provide some codling moth protection, especially if tightly closed at the top with a small rubber band and installed early.Seattletreefruitsociety.com has pictures showing installing the bags with the rubber bands.
