Douglas Fir: Coneworms

categories: Conifers Douglas Fir Douglas Fir Insects Ornamentals

revision date: 2023-01-31 12:00

Pine needles with brown coneworm.
Coneworm larvae on pine
Photo by: K. Grey

Biology

Coneworms attack Douglas fir by boring into shoot tips or stems, especially around wounds, and feeding on the soft bark tissues. The portion of the branch beyond the injured point may die back. Coneworms may also bore into green cones, feed on the soft bark of young growth, or feed inside the bark on the trunk. The coneworms are small and cream-colored or light brown with a darker head. The adult coneworm is a mottled gray moth. Coneworms also attack pines, hemlocks, true firs, and spruces.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

  • Remove and destroy infested cones and twigs when possible.
  • Plant non-susceptible conifers where coneworms are a serious pest.
  • Natural enemies of the coneworm are likely.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

  • None recommended

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