Snowing in the pines
By T&D StaffThursday, June 26, 2008Despite hot temperatures, some are seeing snow in June.
Well not really, but Orangeburg County Clemson Extension Forestry Agent Beth Richardson says a snow white, cottony, waxy secretion is appearing on pines sporadically in areas such as Neeses, Cameron and Orangeburg.
The substance is produced by the woolly pine scale, a microscopic sucking insect that feeds on the needles.
“The scales feed on needles and twigs and do not harm the tree,” Richardson said. “However, repeated severe infestations can cause yellowing, stunted growth, dieback, and heavy sooty mold. If the tree is already under stress, death can occur.”
Richardson explained how the molds grow on the sugary exudates, commonly called honeydew, produced by the feeding insects.
For Richardson, who is a veteran forestry agent, it is the first time she personally has encountered the woolly pine scale locally in forests.
“It is more commonly found in nursery and landscape settings,” she said, adding, however, in all her research she has yet to be able to find why the little insects are prevalent at this time.
But she is not too concerned about the scale.
“In the forest and woodlands, it is not economical to treat your trees,” she said. “There are natural enemies to the scale which will help control the population. Just enjoy the beauty of this small insects’ secretion.”
Richardson said if there is a heavy infestation on landscape trees, individuals are encouraged to treat with an approved insecticide.
For more information about treating your ornamentals, call Morgan Judy at 534-6280.
