Peach, cherry, plum and other stone fruits.
The larval stage produces tree damage. Infestations occur on the trunk from 1-2 feet above ground to 2-3 inches below ground. The larvae feed in the outer layers of bark, penetrating deeper into the bark as they become larger. Infested trees may be killed by the extensive burrowing of larvae in the truck.
Adults are clear wing moths that superficially resemble blue-black wasps. The male is marked by thin light bands on the abdomen while the heavier bodied female has a broad band of orange or red. The larvae are white with a brown head, and measure up to 1 inch in length. The life cycle of the peach tree borer requires one year to complete. After mating, the female moth lays up to 400 eggs on the bark of the lower trunk and in soil cracks near the tree base. Eggs generally hatch in about 10 days.
Upon hatching, larvae immediately tunnel into the sapwood of the tree, usually through cracks and wounds in the bark. Larvae continue to feed and develop until the onset of cold weather. Most activity occurs a few inches below ground on the trunk and larger roots. The insects spend the winter as partially grown larvae below ground under the bark. In early spring, the larvae resume feeding, causing extensive injury. The larvae pupate in late spring in a cell made of silk, gum and chewed wood fragments located just below the soil surface. The pupal stage lasts almost one month after which adult borers emerge. They often pull out the pupal skin which may be seen at the base of the tree.
Avoid damaging the bark as nicks provide easy entry for borers. Closely inspect trunks and main branches for holes that ooze sap. Remove and destroy severely infested trees as these attract more borers.