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Austrian pine #870807

Asked May 30, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT

My Austrian pine has brown needles at the top and bore holes low on the trunk. Is this a pest or a disease? I have pictures.

Mineral County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Ms. Parker,

I have asked a Colorado State Forester to look at your pictures and message. I will also send the message to an entomologist. As soon as I hear from either person, I will let you know ASAP.

If you have questions, let me know.

Thank you,
Marvin

Marvin Reynolds Replied June 06, 2024, 8:24 PM EDT
Thank you. I will be anxious to hear what they say. 

Karen


On Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 6:24 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2024, 10:09 AM EDT

Hi Karen,

The holes in the trunk are caused by a sapsucker. This will normally be a Northern Flicker, a type of woodpecker. Deterring the birds is difficult. Here are two information sources for managing woodpecker damage.

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/natural-resources/preventing-woodpecker-damage-6-516/

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2686&context=extension_curall

The browning needles may be from a shoot blight or shoot moth. A closer picture is needed for a better diagnosis.

https://extension.colostate.edu/docs/misc/NeedleCasts.pdf

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/pine-wilt-disease-2-915/

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/pine-tip-moths-5-529/

Best,

Marvin

Marvin Reynolds Replied June 11, 2024, 11:53 AM EDT

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