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Ornamentals and Turf |
Sawflies are so-named because the adults resemble flies, but they are actually wasps (order Hymenoptera). Females have a saw-like ovipositor that they use to saw open leaves or needles to lay their eggs inside. Redheaded pine sawflies lay their 120+ eggs in the needles of one twig of southern yellow pines and other hard pines. Eggs are inserted in a row. From the eggs hatch tiny caterpillars that are much like moth and butterfly caterpillars (but sawfly caterpillars have more legs). Redheaded pine sawfly caterpillars are often abundant locally and almost always feed gregariously. Large pines may be noticeably defoliated and small trees may be killed. When mature, the caterpillars usually crawl to the soil where they pupate in small (1/2 inch), brown-colored cocoons. Within a few weeks small, fly-like adults emerge and mate. There are four or five generations each year. Pine sawflies overwinter as prepupae in cocoons. Some prepupae develop the following year whereas others may wait two or more years before developing. There is additional information on the redheaded pine sawfly in Publication AG-189, Insect and Related Pests of Shrubs. A common mistake in sawfly control is to assume that they are caterpillars and can be controlled by Dipel (Bacillus thuringiensis). For homeowner control, squashing the insect works well for the non-squeamish. Insecticidal soap is also an option. Merit, Orthene and Sevin are also labeled and would be recommended for large outbreaks. There is always a concern that the latter product could trigger mite outbreaks. For commercial applicators, Conserve is the best option.
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Last modified on August 18, 2003 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.