Pine sawfly
42 host plants
Last updated
You will find clusters of small caterpillar-like larvae with distinctive markings feeding on pine needles in spring and early summer. Damage appears as defoliated branch tips. Larvae feed openly in groups initially. Multiple overlapping generations may occur throughout the growing season. Young pines and heavily infested trees show obvious defoliation.
Hand-remove larval clusters when present on valuable young trees. Prune heavily defoliated branches. Encourage parasitic wasps and predatory insects by avoiding broad-spectrum sprays. Time applications for spring when first generation larvae are feeding. Most established pines tolerate defoliation. Maintain vigor through proper care. Monitor young plantings for population buildup.