Ask the Expert: Pine Trees and Pests

Amid the changing leaves of autumn in the Hamptons, pine trees are a glorious constant—until something goes wrong. Browning trees. Dropping needles. What’s going on? We asked Action Jackson Tree Service & Land Clearing for some expert insights.

The Question: I have a rust or bronze colored pine tree on my property. It seems to be dying quickly. Pine needles are everywhere. What should I do?

The Answer from Action Jackson: The abundance of the needles indicates that it may have died quickly under the voracious teeth of beetles and borers. Act quickly and remove the dead pine tree entirely from your property to stop the migration from your inflicted tree to the next live pine tree nearby.

These insects usually enter the tree at eye level and above. You may see the tiny holes. You may see tiny dribbles of sap, or little dried mounds of sap, especially on a white pine (other pines don’t have as much sap available). If you can spot these beetles, act quickly.

REMOVE the tree. Spraying and other methods of deterrent WILL NOT WORK at this point. Nearby pine trees on your property and your neighbors’ WILL VERY LIKELY become infested if the tree and all of its bark are left on your property. And leave no debris on your property when removing the tree—you do not want to keep these chips for mulching!

Have questions about the trees on your property? You can call Action Jackson Tree Service & Land Clearing at 631-728-1111, or visit them online at www.actionjacksontreeservice.com.