Some insects are probably not worth spraying because they do little or no harm to the tree's wood quality or growth rate. Consult an adviser for advice on chemicals and application rates. None of the insecticides named in this TreeNote are registered for forestry use against these specific insects. For 'off-label' use, obtain a permit from the National Registration Authority. Contact Chris Sharpe, Senior Chemicals Adviser in Agriculture Western Australia's Chemical Services Section for advice on permits.
Wingless grasshoppers are a major pest of both broadleaved trees and pines.
They feed on green leaves in late spring and early summer and can destroy all of a new planting in a few days. Once damage is noticed, spray among the trees using a boom spray or mister. Large areas of adjacent paddocks may also need to be treated and more than one application may be required to control new infestations. Organophosphate insecticides have been used to control this pest in the past, but some synthetic pyrethroids are now registered for this use and experience shows them to be more effective. They may be laid around the boundaries of tree lots or at the base of individual trees, and work best when applied to bare ground, where weed control has been effective.