| Some of our white pines seem to be suffering from an attack of borers. The candles at the very top are dying on several and show small holes when we examine them. One tree seems to be suffering more than the others. How can we treat them? Anything we can do over the winter to help them come spring? |
| This may be the work of several different pests. Larvae of Pine Shoot Borers (several species of moth) and the White Pine Weevil can cause the symptoms you describe. I recommend that you contact your extension office (ph# 216/424-7291) to have them help you identify the exact pest so you can target them with the appropriate control measures. Fortunately, you can train another upper branch to replace the central leader that has been killed. Strap a wooden stake or rod for use as a splint to support the new leader. Hope this helps! |
