University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Insect Damage

Pitch Mass Borer
Synanthedon pini

 
Hosts
Eastern white, Scots and Jack pines as well as white, Norway and Colorado blue spruce.

 
Plants Affected
 
Symptoms

Pine pitch moth adults resemble yellowjackets. The adults are clear wing moths. There are many types of pitch moths.

Large volumes of pitch ooze from the holes made in the trunk by these insects.

 
Life Cycle
All are in one genus - Synanthedon sp. Single eggs are laid on the bark of the pines. Larvae of some species tunnel into the cambium area soon after hatching. They make a hole in which they feed. Sap oozes out of these pits/holes. The pitch mass borer (Synanthedon pini) attacks Austrian, eastern white, Scots and Jack pines as well as white, Norway and Colorado blue spruce. Adults are only seen during the summer and the insect can take up to three years to complete its life cycle.

 
Management

Check with your local land grant university (Cooperative) Extension Service for recommended insecticide.

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic