When pepper fruits are forming on plants, insecticide treatment should begin as soon as an average of four or more moths per light trap are collected per night for three consecutive nights. Once insecticide applications have begun, they should continue on a 7- to 10-day schedule until harvest. It is important to maintain this schedule because of the low infestation level for rejection of the crop. When 10 percent or more of the peppers are infested with European corn borer at delivery for processing, the entire crop is usually rejected. For peppers to be processed whole, such as for pickling, the threshold for rejection may be as low as 1 to 5 percent or even lower, depending on the processor.

Insecticides can be applied with either conventional ground or aerial spray equipment. If adequate control is to be obtained, generally the insecticide used must have residual activity for 7 to 10 days. Consult the local state Cooperative Extension Service for recommendations on insecticides and rates of application. Also, note preharvest time and restrictions stated for treatment.