Hemlock: Coneworms

categories: Conifers Hemlock Hemlock 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 trees by boring into green cones, shoot tips, stems, and trunks. They are particularly attracted to wound sites. Coneworm feeding results in the dieback of affected twigs. Injured twigs often can be distinguished by the presence of pitch and sawdust-like frass (excrement). These larvae are small (about 1⁄2″ long) and light brown with a darker head. The adult coneworm is a mottled gray moth. Coneworms also attack pines, true firs, Douglas fir, 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 twigs and cones when possible.
  • Avoid wounding trees.
  • 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.

  • Not known to significantly damage trees. None recommended.

Additional Image