Holes in large Pine Tree - Ask Extension
Something in boring holes in my large pine trees. Wondering if they can be treated somehow before they get worse ?
Knowledgebase
Holes in large Pine Tree #837034
Asked June 22, 2023, 2:03 PM EDT
Something in boring holes in my large pine trees. Wondering if they can be treated somehow before they get worse ?
Ingham County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
While it's hard to make out specific holes that are in the trunk, the pattern of sap production is indicative of zimmerman pine moth.
Please read the information at the link below and compare to your situation to be sure it is indeed this pest before proceeding.
https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/publications/E-40/E-40.html
This publication mentions a fall application; other publications mention that a fall application has only spotty results due to timing of caterpillar hatch from eggs. If you confirm the tree has the symptoms of zimmerman pine moth, plan for a spring application - if you plan to use insecticides at all.
It's also a good idea to water trees as Ingham County is now classified as in a "moderate drought."
https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MI
Trees, especially pine trees, become stressed in drought conditions making them more susceptible to infestation, and less likely to have the ability to ward off pests. Water thoroughly by allowing a hose to run near the base of the trunk for around an hour. Or, if possible, run a sprinkler to soak the entire area under the branches, taking care to not soak the lower portion of the trunk of the tree.
Natural predators also help to keep zimmerman pine moth in check. So, depending on the severity of the infestation, treatment may not be warranted.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you,
-Julie
While it's hard to make out specific holes that are in the trunk, the pattern of sap production is indicative of zimmerman pine moth.
Please read the information at the link below and compare to your situation to be sure it is indeed this pest before proceeding.
https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/publications/E-40/E-40.html
This publication mentions a fall application; other publications mention that a fall application has only spotty results due to timing of caterpillar hatch from eggs. If you confirm the tree has the symptoms of zimmerman pine moth, plan for a spring application - if you plan to use insecticides at all.
It's also a good idea to water trees as Ingham County is now classified as in a "moderate drought."
https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MI
Trees, especially pine trees, become stressed in drought conditions making them more susceptible to infestation, and less likely to have the ability to ward off pests. Water thoroughly by allowing a hose to run near the base of the trunk for around an hour. Or, if possible, run a sprinkler to soak the entire area under the branches, taking care to not soak the lower portion of the trunk of the tree.
Natural predators also help to keep zimmerman pine moth in check. So, depending on the severity of the infestation, treatment may not be warranted.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you,
-Julie
