Conifer Sawflies

What are they? 

Non-stinging wasps that feed on spruce trees and feed together in a colony. They can strip needles from a tree in just a matter of days.

What are the signs?

· Needle discoloration and loss

· Stripped branch tips

· Feeding on old and new needles

Life Cycle

· Eggs overwinter on bark

· Eggs hatch in April–May

Treatment and Prevention

· Can be treated with systemic or topical insecticides

· Treatment needs to occur before they begin to feed rapidly