Question From: S. Saltmarsh - Cordova, Alaska, United States
Q: I live in South Central Alaska. My larch tree that was grown from a seedling, is now about 20 foot tall. For the first time this year I noticed closed green cones! Yesterday we noticed inch long "caterpillars". Black headed, pale greenish, with paler undersides; they are eating the needles, so have defoliated branch sections. The tree is still very healthy looking. From your information just read, I can't tell if they're a Casebearer or a Sawfly. What can I do to save my beautiful tree?. Thank you for any help.
A: Here are some links that might be helpful in identifying and treating the problem:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5187464.pdf
https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef410
If this were my tree I would get an onsite inspection from a trained professional who is familiar with issues and chemical regulations in your area. To find a certified arborist go to www.tcia.org and enter your zip code. Best Nancy
http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5187464.pdf
https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef410
If this were my tree I would get an onsite inspection from a trained professional who is familiar with issues and chemical regulations in your area. To find a certified arborist go to www.tcia.org and enter your zip code. Best Nancy
