Leek Moth in NH

Leek moth has now been found in several gardens and farms in Grafton and Coos Counties.  Leek moth (Acrolepiopsis assectella) arrived in Vermont in 2012 and was first reported in New Hampshire in 2016.  The caterpillar of this moth feeds on Alliums, including garlic, onions, and leeks. There are three generations of this pest, and it is active starting in very early spring (once the soil temperatures hit 50F) in cycles through mid-late August. As you pull your garlic, pay attention for signs of the damage. The damage can be confused with that caused by thrips, botrytis blight, and saltmarsh caterpillar – but it is distinct and the caterpillar is easy to identify. There are some excellent photos of the damage in these three publications:

• Leek Moth Identification and Management Guide, Cornell University
• Leek Moth – A Pest of Onion Crops. Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs
• Leek Moth, Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project

These publications also detail management tactics. In addition to chemical approaches, rowcovers and other methods of exclusion can be effective.