Question
We have a grasshopper infestation this year and noticed, almost, over-night that over half of the needles are gone. Only about a quarter of the (top part of tree) needles are left. They have apparently been chewing on the bark where the needles were. Will the needles come back or have the grasshoppers destroyed my tree? Thank You!

Answer
Dear Michelle:

Re: Eldarica Pine Tree and Grasshopper Infestation

If you nurture the tree during the next 30 to 60 days by ensuring a good water supply and fertilizing with a balanced slow release granular fertilizer such as 10-10-10; then there's a 50% chance that the tree will survive. Don't over-fertilize: follow directions on the container and/or seek the advice of your local garden store consultant who will need to know the size of the tree, age, etc.    Meanwhile, put some pest control barriers and repellents in place to provide the tree some protection.

Organic Barriers for Control of Grasshoppers:

   * Plant the herb horehound (Marrubium vulgare) which is known to repel grasshoppers.
   * Grasshoppers do not like cilantro which is used by many organic gardeners as a barrier crop.
   * Plant Pot Marigolds (calendula) as a barrier deterrent.
   * Spray a heavy infusion of garlic oil as a repellent.

Garlic Oil Spray
To make: Combine 3 ounces of minced garlic cloves with 1 ounce of mineral oil. Let soak for 24 hours or longer. Strain.
Next mix 1 teaspoon of fish emulsion with 16 ounces of water. Add 1 tablespoon of castile soap to this.
Now slowly combine the fish emulsion water with the garlic oil. Kept in a sealed glass container this mixture will stay viable for several months. To use: Mix 2 tablespoons of garlic oil with 1 pint of water and spray.

Sincerely,


Mack Jean
AllExperts
Master Gardener
Tennessee