One of the conifers in my dad's garden recently started shedding it's needles. On closer inspection, it has an infestation of some sort.

Could somebody help identify the wee critters please? (and perhaps suggest a solution, although i think this tree is a goner!)

http://i29.tinypic.com/34hyp91.jpg

http://i27.tinypic.com/2uskcoz.jpg

cheers

Jonny

"jonnymac" wrote ..

One of the conifers in my dad's garden recently started shedding it's
needles. On closer inspection, it has an infestation of some sort.

Could somebody help identify the wee critters please? (and perhaps
suggest a solution, although i think this tree is a goner!)

[image: http://i29.tinypic.com/34hyp91.jpg]

[image: http://i27.tinypic.com/2uskcoz.jpg]

Those are the Conifer Aphid. Larger than other aphids, a heavy infection of
them will cause the symptoms you mention together with lots of honeydew
(sticky, sweet, pee) from them which attracts sooty moulds.
Try spraying them with an insecticide for aphids (if it's a small tree) or
soapy water. If your father has other conifers nearby check them too.

--
Regards
Bob Hobden
just W. of London

thanks very much for the reply!

will see if i can get rid of the little blighters, and hopefully they've not spread!

cheers

Jonny