Monday, December 26, 2022 by Greeny’s Pest Control Inc.
Pine seed bugs, also known as pine bug or pine weevil, are a common pest in Ontario, particularly in areas where pine trees are abundant. These bugs can cause significant damage to pine trees, particularly young trees, by feeding on the seeds and seedlings.
Pine seed bugs are native to North America and can be found across the continent, including in Ontario. They are small, brown insects that are about 8-10 mm in length. They have a long, slender body with a tapered abdomen and a pair of wings that they use to fly.
Pine seed bugs are most active in the late summer and early fall, when they are searching for a place to overwinter. They are attracted to the warm, sunny sides of buildings, which is why they are often found in large numbers on the south and west facing walls of homes and other structures.
Pine seed bugs are not a major threat to adult pine trees, but they can cause significant damage to young trees. They feed on the seeds and seedlings of pine trees, which can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to other pests and diseases. In severe infestations, pine seed bugs can kill young trees.
There are a few ways to control pine seed bug infestations in Ontario. One option is to use chemical pesticides, but these can be potentially dangerous to use and is often best left to professional pest control companies. Another option is to use physical barriers, such as netting or screens, to keep the bugs away from young trees.
Another effective control method is to remove any overwintering sites that the bugs may be using. This can include sealing up cracks and crevices in buildings, as well as removing any piles of debris or fallen branches that the bugs may be using as shelter.
It's also important to properly maintain pine trees to reduce the risk of pine seed bug infestations. This includes watering and fertilizing the trees regularly, pruning them to remove any damaged or diseased branches, and removing any weeds or other plants that may be competing with the trees for resources.
In conclusion, pine seed bugs are a common pest in Ontario, particularly in areas where pine trees are abundant. They can cause significant damage to young trees by feeding on the seeds and seedlings but can be controlled through the use of physical barriers, removal of overwintering sites, and proper tree maintenance. It's important to keep an eye out for these pests and take steps to control them in order to protect the health and vitality of your pine trees.