Combating pine bush horn | Neem oil, repellent spray & beneficial

1. General information about the pine bush sawfly

The pine bushhorn sawfly (Diprion pini) is one of the most important pests of pine trees . The females lay their eggs in the needles, from which larvae hatch after a few weeks. These larvae feed on the pine needles in large groups and can strip entire trees bare. Young pines are particularly vulnerable, often dying after a severe infestation.

The larvae resemble caterpillars, but are not butterfly caterpillars, but sawfly larvae. Repeated infestations over several years can severely weaken forests and garden trees.

2. Detecting pine bush sawfly infestation – typical signs

An infestation is clearly visible on the pines:

Defoliation of needles , often in nests on branches
Larvae in groups : greenish, 2–3 cm long, with black spots and dark head
Dead or brown needles on the shoots
In case of severe infestation: whole shoots or trees without needles

The damage caused by feeding usually occurs in early summer and is immediately visible.

With neem oil, you support your plants naturally and promote their resistance to pests.

Easy to use: Simply mix with water and spray evenly onto the plants – quick and easy.
Natural plant care: Made from plant-based ingredients, free from synthetic additives and without unpleasant odor.
Long-lasting support: Promotes plant resilience and cares for them over a longer period of time.

Power Neem Oil with Emulsifier for Houseplants & Garden

€19,90

€19,90 /item

3. Preventing pine bush horn – Tips for healthy pines

To reduce the infestation, these measures help:

Check trees regularly : Check needles and branches for larvae, especially in spring and summer.
Remove affected shoots early : Small groups of larvae can be cut off along with the branches.
Promote stable tree health : Water and fertilize well to make the pines more resilient.
Promote natural enemies : Birds and insects such as lacewings contribute to regulation.

With lacewing larvae, you can support your trees in a natural way by reducing the number of pine sawfly larvae and thus contributing to sustainable protection.

Easy to use: The cards can be quickly and easily attached directly to the plants.
Natural & gentle: Lacewings are proven beneficial insects from nature – completely without chemical additives.
Long-lasting support: Active for several weeks and reliably helps protect your plants.

Lacewing larvae eggs against aphids, mealybugs for hanging

From €9,49

€9,49 /item

4. GREEN GUARDIA products against pine bush sawflies

GREEN GUARDIA Neem Oil Plant Care

Neem oil specifically targets sucking and biting pests such as the larvae of the pine bush sawfly. Sprayed onto the needles, it forms a protective film over the plant and disrupts the pests' development cycle, thus reducing infestation in the long term.

GREEN GUARDIA pest repellent spray

The ready-to-use spray is suitable for immediate use in cases of severe infestation . It acts directly on the larvae on the needles and provides rapid relief. Ideal for individual trees in the garden or newly planted pines.

GREEN GUARDIA lacewing larvae against pests

Lacewing larvae are voracious beneficial insects that feed not only on aphids but also on young larvae of the pine bushhorn sawfly. They help naturally control the pest population.

👉 The combination of neem oil (preventive & growth-inhibiting) , repellent spray (immediate effect) and lacewing larvae (permanent biological solution) is the most effective strategy to effectively control pine bushhorn pests on pines.

✅ Conclusion: The pine bushhorn sawfly can cause severe damage or even death to pine trees. With early control, consistent care, and GREEN GUARDIA products – neem oil, repellent spray, and lacewing larvae – you can protect your pine trees reliably and in an environmentally friendly way.