Maggots in pea pods: what’s causing them and how do I stop it?

The little grey-brown pea moth is very common especially in southern and eastern England. From mid-May, peaking in mid-July, it lays its eggs on the leaves. The thread-like
caterpillars seek out developing pods, bore their way inside and feed on the swelling peas, spoiling them with tunnels and droppings (frass). Once fully grown they bite their way to freedom and pupate in the soil where they stay until next May. As the moth can fly for two miles or more crop rotation is no help here.

In consideration of other garden wildlife it’s best to cover the pea crop with fleece or insect proof mesh, which will also prevent bird damage. Birds can quickly strip peas. Early sown peas often escape damage, forming pods before the moth strikes, late, June sown peas can also escape. Harvest edible podded mangetout and snap peas when pods are young and tender before internal damage occurs.

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