How to prevent sawflies on evergreens

Evergreens are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but they can be vulnerable to sawflies. Sawflies are small, flying insects that feed on the needles of evergreens, causing damage and potentially killing the tree. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent sawflies from infesting your evergreens. Follow these simple steps to keep your trees healthy and beautiful:

Step 1: Identify the sawflies
The first step in preventing sawflies is to identify them. Sawflies are small, flying insects that resemble wasps. They have a narrow waist and two pairs of wings. You may also see larvae on the needles of your evergreens. These larvae are small, green caterpillar-like creatures.

Step 2: Keep your evergreens healthy
Healthy evergreens are less likely to be infested with sawflies. Make sure your trees are well-watered and fertilized. Prune any dead or diseased branches to keep the tree healthy.

Step 3: Use natural predators
There are several natural predators of sawflies, including birds, ladybugs, and parasitic wasps. Encourage these predators to visit your garden by providing food and shelter.

Step 4: Use insecticidal soap
Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to control sawflies. Spray the soap directly on the larvae and adult insects. Repeat the application every 7-10 days until the infestation is under control.

Step 5: Use neem oil
Neem oil is another natural insecticide that can be used to control sawflies. Mix the oil with water and spray it on the affected trees. Repeat the application every 7-10 days until the infestation is under control.

Step 6: Remove infested branches
If you notice an infestation on a specific branch, remove it immediately. This will prevent the sawflies from spreading to other parts of the tree.

By following these simple steps, you can prevent sawflies from infesting your evergreens and keep your trees healthy and beautiful for years to come.