Usually does not require control in Missouri. Bursaphelenchus xylophilus Scots pine is very susceptible. Since 1998, we have also identified the nematode in white pine from two sites in southeast Missouri. Initial symptom may appear as dieback of scattered branches or the entire tree may look gray-green as a result of moisture stress. Tree death is usually rapid.
Infestation occurs during the summer and the disease develops in a few weeks.
The only control at the present time is to remove and destroy affected trees that can serve as a source of infection for healthy trees nearby. The nematode is spread by beetles that live in dead or dying trees. See also MU publication MX 858 . Some varieties may be more resistant . Dieback of tips of branches of Austrian, red and Scots pine.