Identifying and Controlling Sawfly Larvae on White Pines

Pest Identification

Yellow caterpillars with black markings defoliating white pines in southern Indiana are likely sawfly larvae, not true caterpillars.

Bt Application: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is effective against sawfly larvae.

Life Cycle: Usually one generation per year (two in far south). Natural predators typically keep populations in check.

Expert Contact: For confirmation, contact Phil Marshall, Forest Health Specialist, Indiana DNR (812-358-3621).

Monitor tall trees; ground-based spraying may not reach upper canopy.

Conifers: Managing Pine Needles in the Landscape: From Nuisance to Resource; Redheaded Pine Sawfly: Identification and Control on Mugo Pine; Pine Needle Management: Leave, Rake, or Mulch?; HOA Conflict: Pine Needles in Rock Landscaping—Unreasonable Standards; Pine Needles vs. Native Grass: Rake or Keep?; Pines Dying from Bottom Up: Normal Needle Drop vs. Bark Beetles; Reviving Frost-Damaged Norfolk Island Pines in Florida; Bagworms on Pine: Bt Fails on Mature Bags, Switch to Contact Sprays; Caring for Moss Rocks in a Pond: Shade, Moisture, and Water Quality; Can You Leave Pine Needles on the Lawn Over Winter?

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