Tree & Shrub Insects: Pitch Mass Borer.
Pitch Mass Borers attack a wide variety of pines and spruces. The adults (which look like yellow jackets, though are moths) lay eggs near wounds on trees, such as where a branch had been removed or where mechanical injury occurred. After the larvae/borer hatches from the egg, it will start boring into the wood of the tree. The tree will start dying from the top downward and a near continuous flow of pinkish sap or pitch can be seen running down the trunk of the tree.
Trees Susceptible to Pitch Mass Borer
- Ponderosa Pines
- Austrian Pines
- Scot Pines
- Norway Spruce
- and other species of pines and spruces
What the homeowner can do:
- Do not prune the tree during the active growing season
- Do not over water the tree, only provide moisture during periods of drought
- Applying a preventative insecticide to wounded areas of the tree may help prevent infestation
- If the tree has already been infested, insecticides may be applied directly into the trunk during the growing season to kill off larvae
- Topping the tree off under the dead tip should help halt the larvae from spreading to the lower portion of the tree
If you believe your trees or shrubs have insect activity, call Grounds Services today for a no-obligations visit at 567-952-0057.
Fast, reliable lawn care services to meet your needs in and around the greater Toledo area
