Symptoms: Occurring usually on pines. Partially or completely eaten needles near the tips of branches. In severe cases, the entire tree or shrub may be defoliated. Presence of caterpillars is usually obvious.

Lifecycle: Eggs are laid in spring by flying adult sawflies. When the eggs hatch, young caterpillars (larvae) begin to eat the needles of the host plant. Most sawfly species feed on pines in spring and early summer. When mature, the larvae fall to the ground and spin a cocoon to become the flying adult that winters over in the soil to begin the cycle over again the following spring.

Control: Spray with Bonide Eight or Bayer Tree & Shrub Spray as soon as caterpillars or damage is noticed in the spring. Inspect for reinfestation during the growing season and spray as necessary.