Insect Blog

Pitch Nodule Moth

May 14th, 2019

Plants Affected:

Pinyon pines.

Symptoms:

This insect affects the new growth of the tree.  The new growth crooks over and dies, turning brown.  A small nodule of pitch can be seen where it crooks over.

Life Cycle:

The larvae (small worm) feeds on the damaged shoot and turns into the moth which lays eggs on new buds.  These eggs hatch as the bud expands in the spring and bores into the plant.  It takes two years to complete its cycle.

Treatment/Care:

Our treatments in mid t late May will control this insect.  Cutting off damaged shoots will control next years’ damage.