European Pine Sawfly
Neodiprion sertifer
A defoliating sawfly whose larvae feed in groups on pine needles, causing significant aesthetic damage and potential tree mortality with repeated defoliation. Adults resemble large flies but are actually primitive wasps with serrated ovipositors for slitting needles to lay eggs.
Identification & Symptoms
What to Look For
Potential Damage
Lifecycle
One generation per year. During September-October, females slit needle edges with saw-like ovipositors and lay 6-8 eggs per needle in 10-12 needles. Overwinter as eggs. Hatching occurs late April through early May. Larvae feed in groups on previous year's needles and sometimes bark of new shoots. Mature larvae drop to ground in late May-early June to pupate in golden brown cocoons in leaf litter. Adults emerge early September until late fall.
Professional Treatment Approach
Apply Imisol during early larval stage for systemic control
Use Imicide for immediate contact kill of active larvae
Time treatments for late April through May when larvae are actively feeding
Monitor trees for early signs of larval feeding
Focus treatments on high-value landscape and nursery trees
Consider biological controls in forest settings
Recommended Mauget Products
Imisol
Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against european pine sawfly.
View Product DetailsImicide
Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against european pine sawfly.
View Product DetailsArborfos
Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against european pine sawfly.
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