Spruce beetles attack the bark of Sitka, Lutz, white spruce trees and, rarely, black spruces. They live in the thin layer between the bark and the wood, and though they tend to prefer spruces that are fallen or injured, they will attack living trees when the conditions are right. Below are three signs of a spruce bark beetle infestation, any of which calls for prompt tree service.

How to Tell If Your Tree Has Spruce Beetles

1. Pitch Tubes on the Bark

When spruce beetles attack, the tree's natural response is to release pitch, a thick viscous substance that’s more commonly known as resin. Pitch is emitted via small, conical, tube-like eruptions on the bark of the tree — these eruptions typically look like a large (less than one inch) drop of firm sap. They are usually white or reddish-brown. A white tube tells you that the tree has eliminated the beetle, but a reddish-brown tube means the beetle has successfully bored through the bark and tree service is needed.

2. Visible Holes or Degradation

If you suspect spruce beetles have infested a tree, remove a small section of bark. There are usually visible holes on the inner bark or noticeable degradation in the color or appearance of the bark. Parts of the inner bark might also be dead.

3. Frass On & Around the Tree

Frass is the sawdust-like material spruce beetles leave in their wake as they bore into a surface. It resembles reddish-brown coffee grounds. Frass tends to accumulate in the ridges and crevices of the outside of the bark and in small piles at the base of the tree.

When any of the above signs are present, contact a tree service as soon as possible. Greatland Tree Service has more than 15 years of experience serving the Anchorage, AK, area. They provide commercial and residential tree removal, trimming, and pruning, as well as lawn installation, landscaping, and emergency tree services. They will help you identify solutions for a spruce beetle infestation and protect the health and longevity of your green spaces. Schedule tree service or request a quote by calling (907) 336-8733 or visiting their website today.