The Zimmerman Pine Moth: A Silent Threat to Wixom's Pine Trees

Nestled in Oakland County, the city of Wixom, Michigan, is home to beautiful landscape pine trees that face a significant ecological challenge: the destructive Zimmerman Pine Moth. This small but devastating insect poses a serious threat to pine trees throughout the region, particularly Austrian and Scot’s pine varieties.

What is Zimmerman Pine Moth

The Zimmerman Pine Moth is a wood-boring insect that attacks pine trees through a calculated life cycle. Adult moths emerge between mid-June and mid-September, laying eggs on tree bark. The larvae, which are typically dirty white or gray, feed for a short period on the surface of the tree. Afterwards, they excavate a small pit on the outside of the tree and spin a cocoon, where they will remain until the following spring. In early spring the larvae emerge from their cocoon and tunnel into the tree. The larval feeding inside the tree is the part of their life stage that causes the most damage to pine trees.

Symptoms and Damage

Early signs of infestation include:
•    Small, reddish pitch masses where branches meet the trunk
•    Wilting and browning of new tree growth
•    Branches that curve downward or break off
•    White, sawdust-sized crumbs near tree whorls

Impact on Local Landscapes

In areas like Wixom, with an abundance of Austrian and Scot’s pines planted as landscape trees, these moths can significantly impact the local pine population. Stressed trees are particularly susceptible, with repeated attacks potentially leading to tree death.

Management and Prevention

Effective management of Zimmerman Pine Moth requires targeted treatment during two critical windows:

•    Early April, before overwintering larvae begin tunneling into a tree
•    Mid-August through early September when adult moths are active

Residents and arborists in Wixom should remain vigilant and consider professional treatment to protect their pine trees from this persistent pest. If you think your pine trees might have a Zimmerman Pine Moth infestation call Owen Tree & Lawn Care today to have your trees inspected by an ISA Certified Arborist.