Flour moths and seed storage

[Ocimum]

Hi,

I've got a problem: took over a few houndreds of varieties, but there are flour moths around. I don't know the species. The seeds are stored in paper envelopes, and I just don't have the space to put everything into glass jars.

I tried the pheromone traps, but they don't seem to work so far.

Who knows what to do?

Throw a pinch of diatomeus earth in each bag?

Put bay leaves everywhere? Does it even work?

With freezing I risk reinfestation, as the moths are flying around quite far, and it reduces seed viability if repeated.

[Ferdzy]

Id try the diatomaceous earth as a start.

[Woody Gardener]

I lost some important seeds to 'pantry moths' several years ago. They can make holes in plastic bags. Also lost some to mice that are able to chew through plastic containers. I bought 4 metal ammo boxes from Harbor Freight for $8 each, stack-able, waterproof, fireproof, bug and animal proof. Price is now $12 but still a bargain IMHO.

[Ferdzy]

I lost some important seeds to 'pantry moths' several years ago. They can make holes in plastic bags. Also lost some to mice that are able to chew through plastic containers. I bought 4 metal ammo boxes from Harbor Freight for $8 each, stack-able, waterproof, fireproof, bug and animal proof. Price is now $12 but still a bargain IMHO.

Half-price post-Christmas European cookies in big metal tins, just sayin'!

[Woody Gardener]

Half-price post-Christmas European cookies in big metal tins, just sayin'!

I don't know how they do it but 'pantry moths' can get in canning jars that are not screwed down very tight. The few extra dollars for the ammo boxes are worthwhile to me.

[Ferdzy]

Ah? Interesting.

I don't have a big moth problem, and the few times I've found them in something apparently well-sealed I assumed they came in as eggs and hatched. I guess I won't worry at the moment, but something for me to keep in mind.

[spacecase0]

even in glass jars, the diatomaceous earth is a good idea, the moths can't spread even inside a jar if they die trying to get to the next seed
I vacuum my jars, so they can't breath in the first place.
but if I had paper envelope only, diatomaceous earth would by my first try