Pines, Problems

While the Georgia pine is popular, it has its challenges.

Southern pines are used in pulpwood and lumber in Georgia and play an important role in the state's economy.

Pines are one of the favorite trees to plant around homes in our area. But, if you're planning to plant pines in your yard, you should know some of the problems you might have.

Pines planted around homes can develop several problems.

One of the most common, and the most serious, is fusiform rust. This disease causes weak places in the trunk, making the tree more likely to break in windstorms. Fusiform swellings look like indentations on the trunk. Sometimes a boring insect gets in this indentation. As it bores, pine pitch, a sticky, white material, oozes out around the swelling. Usually it's best to remove trees with fusiform rust.

Needle drop…

Most people get upset when their pine's needles turn yellow or orange and begin dropping off. In the fall, the dropping of interior needles is natural. Don't be alarmed about natural needle drop during the fall, but if yellowing occurs, have the tree checked by an expert.

Insects love pines…

Pines also have several insect problems. The most serious is the bark beetle. The beetle that attacks most pines in landscapes is the IPS beetle. It usually invades weakened trees or those stressed by drought.

Symptoms…

You'll notice small holes in the trunk, a fine sawdust, and pine pitch may ooze out and harden into what looks like popcorn. Finally, your tree will turn orange and brown. By the time the tree has turned completely, the insects may have already attacked another tree.

You should remove a dead tree with beetle symptoms before the insects spread. Also, spray neighboring pines with a recommended insecticide as soon as possible.

Southern pines are used in pulpwood and lumber in Georgia and play an important role in the state's economy. But, pines used in the landscape in wet areas may not be a wise choice.

For more information on problems with pines, contact your local County Extension Office.