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Tip Moths (Rhyacionia spp.)
Tip moths, also called pine tip moths, are tortrix moth larvae that bore into the growing tips and lateral buds of young pine trees, causing shoot death and the characteristic flagging of branch tips. Repeated infestations over successive years stunt growth, reduce timber value, and create multi-leader trees with poor form. Plantation pines and ornamental pines under 15 feet tall are most vulnerable. Systemic soil injections or surface sprays applied during adult flight periods and egg hatch protect new shoots from larval mining.