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Pine Tip Moths (Rhyacionia spp.)
Pine tip moths are tortrix moth larvae that bore into the growing tips and shoots of young pine trees, causing wilting and death of the current season's growth — a symptom called shoot flagging. Repeated attacks over several years can stunt tree growth and result in distorted, multi-stemmed trees of reduced ornamental and timber value. Young plantation pines and nursery stock are most vulnerable. Systemic insecticide injections or targeted spray applications timed to adult flight and egg hatch provide the most reliable protection.