Knowledgebase

White pine #876371

Asked July 08, 2024, 3:39 PM EDT

Hi, I have several white pines that have a white sap like material on them . These trees are only three years old and approximately 4 feet tall . It obvious something is not right . My question is, how do I treat that? When should I treat it and will it affect my other Evergreen trees next to them? I have approximately 40 trees lined up.

Eaton County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,
This looks like the work of the white pine weevil. Are most of the sap covered branches the leader, as in the main stem of the tree? Have any of the leaders died yet? 
If they do die off, or if you can determine that it is white pine weevil from the materials presented below, you may cut out the main stem, or leader. Over time, you can train a side, or lateral branch to become the leader. 
This is a fairly common occurrence with white pine trees that are grown out in the open (as in, not in a forested area). The weevils favor full sun, and readily attack young trees. 

Below is a link to general information about white pine weevil:
https://extension.psu.edu/white-pine-weevil

Below is a link to how to treat for the weevil in early spring:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/control_white_pine_weevil_in_early_spring

Please do feel free to reach out if you have any questions. 

Thank you,
-Julie
Julie Crick Replied July 09, 2024, 9:06 AM EDT

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