Foam on White Pine: Spittlebug Identification & Control

Globs of foam appeared on a large white pine in northern Illinois. Owner asked what it was.

The expert identified pine spittlebug (Aphrophora parallela). Nymphs feed on sap and cover themselves in frothy spittle. Heavy infestations can kill twigs/branches. Control: forceful contact insecticide (Orthene) before mid-July when spittle masses protect nymphs. Natural fungal disease often limits populations.

Spittlebug Lifecycle

• Eggs overwinter on twig tips.
• Spring hatch → nymphs feed, make spittle.
• July: adults emerge, spittle dries, sooty mold may follow.
• Spray Orthene before mid-July for control.