Scouting and Control of Common Pests of Fraser Fir  

Cinara aphids are large, brown or black aphids that congregate on the terminal, trunk, and first whirl of branches. Cinara aphids are often found on Fraser fir. They usually do not remain more than a few weeks on trees, even without a pesticide application. However, if numbers are very high, treatment may be warranted on trees nearing market. Heavily infested trees will have sooty mold, a black-colored fungus that grows on the honeydew produced by the aphids, which will make the trees unsightly. These aphids can also hatch out on decorated trees in homes.
    Scouting method. Usually Cinara aphids are found while scouting for another pest. Note locations of Cinara aphids on field maps. If Cinara aphids are found in one block, scout other blocks on the plantation to determine how widespread they are. Use the hot spot scouting method, checking on the spots every 1 or 2 weeks to determine how long they are staying in the trees, or if their numbers are increasing. Contact your county extension agent for advice on whether treatment is warranted, since there is currently no treatment threshold.