White Cotton-Like Material on the ends of Pine Needle Clusters - What is it? - Ask Extension
My pine tree has clusters of needles covered in this white cotton-like material. Also, many of the needles closer to the main trunk are turning brow...
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White Cotton-Like Material on the ends of Pine Needle Clusters - What is it? #470638
Asked July 15, 2018, 5:07 PM EDT
My pine tree has clusters of needles covered in this white cotton-like material. Also, many of the needles closer to the main trunk are turning brown. The entire tree looks like its dying. Can you diagnose and recommend a course of treatment? Can I even save this tree?
Deschutes County Oregon
Expert Response
Can you send an additional photo of the entire tree so I can see overall growth, where the brown spots are, and growing conditions of this lodgepole pine?
Thanks!
Nicole
Thanks!
Nicole
Here you go, Nicole
Hi there,
It looks like this little tree has a case of woolly pine scale. You can learn more about the insect here: http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/forestry/docs/assistance/pests/fidls/178.pdf
You usually don't have to manage for this insect. I think the browning you are seeing is this tree self-pruning it's lower branches that aren't getting enough sun. The upper branches look pretty healthy, though overall the tree looks a little spindly, probably due to lack of sunlight. Make sure you don't prune this tree between March-October and that you give it supplemental water once a month to help it thrive and be resilient.
Let me know if you have further questions.
Nicole
It looks like this little tree has a case of woolly pine scale. You can learn more about the insect here: http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/forestry/docs/assistance/pests/fidls/178.pdf
You usually don't have to manage for this insect. I think the browning you are seeing is this tree self-pruning it's lower branches that aren't getting enough sun. The upper branches look pretty healthy, though overall the tree looks a little spindly, probably due to lack of sunlight. Make sure you don't prune this tree between March-October and that you give it supplemental water once a month to help it thrive and be resilient.
Let me know if you have further questions.
Nicole
Thanks Nicole. This tree was planted on the north side of the house and so yes, it doesn't get alot of sun. It does get watered once a week.
I can't promise that the tree will ever thrive, but do the best to give it a good growing space. At some point you might decide to replace it with something a little more shade tolerant. And fire resistant of course.
The Fire Resistant Plants for Home Landscapes is always a good place for inspiration. https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/catalog/files/project/pdf/pnw590.pdf
