Pine Beetle in VA Pines

[coolbrze]

A client of ours is concerned that he has a Pine Beetle infestation in his VA Pines. I looked and don't see dust, resin, or pitch tubes, yet some of the Pines are slowly turning a lighter color and a few have died. Any ideas?

 

[Urban Forester]

I would check and see if Pinewood Nematode (Pine Wilt) can attack that species of pine. Off-color is one of the first symptoms.

 

[beastmaster]

I not familiar with what kind of pine beetles you guys have back east, but sometimes IBS will start in the top of the trees out here, and there won't be much sign of them unless you climb the tree.
They carry a fungus that will slowing cause the whole tree to die off. It leaves a blue stain on the wood, and prevents the tree from moving water upwards.
Some think to check out if your bored. Beastmaster.