This season, we experienced record-breaking hurricanes, particularly in the southern region of the US. This extreme weather caused massive plant and tree destruction. Such damage causes pest populations to explode, particularly Southern Pine Bark Beetle, who rush in while trees’ defensive systems are suppressed.
By taking preventative measures now, we can make sure our trees remain strong against Southern Pine Bark Beetle this season and for years to come. It’s time to act – and we can help.
What is Pine Bark Beetle?
To stop this pest, we first need to identify what it is. There are several species of Pine Bark Beetle, including Southern Pine Bark Beetle, Black Turpentine Beetle, and Ips Engraver Beetle. These three species are known to attack and kill southern yellow pines during periods of environmental stress.
How do they do it? These beetles bore into the cambium in large groups and disrupt nutrient and water movement, killing the tree. Several of these species also introduce a fungus known as blue stain which can kill a tree by clogging its vascular systems.
What Are the Symptoms?
Individual trees attacked by Pine Bark Beetle may look faded or have mixed tan and green needles progressing to red, followed by tree death, over just a few weeks. Cream to red-colored pitch tubes will be present in the lower bole of the tree with entrance and exit holes nearby. As the attack increases and second generations attack the tree, older pitch tubes will turn red. However, keep in mind that during periods of excessive drought, pitch tubes may not be present.
What Can We Do?
We recommend preventatively treating pines with TREE-äge G4 insecticide via trunk injection. This seals a small dose of insect control into the tree, providing up to two years of control. For added protection against blue stain, inject Propizol fungicide at the time of the treatment. It’s best to treat when signs are spotted in your area before the tree in question is attacked.
For more information, visit our Pine Bark Beetle page. To contact your Regional Technical Manager or find a service provider in your area, please visit us online.