What's Killing My Pine Trees

Southern pine beetles (SPB) are the most destructive bark beetles and infest all species of pine indigenous to the South. Ips beetles and black turpentine beetles are present throughout the southeast virtually every year but seldom kill large numbers of trees in one spot.

Can you save a pine tree from dying?

Solution: Dead and dying wood is a magnet for diseases and pests, so it has to go. Prune as needed, cutting back to healthy branches. Use rubbing alcohol between cuts to disinfect your tools. Try to keep the tree’s natural shape, and avoid cutting the branches flush to the trunk, which may damage the bark.

Is there a bug that kills pine trees?

Pine bark beetles are the single most destructive pest which attacks pine trees. … Pine bark beetles are attracted to pine trees by smelling the trees sap. Though most trees will emit small amounts of sap naturally, trees which sustain injury due to man or nature are more likely to get beetle activity.