The Pine Beetle is the most destructive forest pest in North America.
The Canadian Forest Service describes the current pine beetle epidemic as the largest insect infestation in North American history.
Verbenone and how it works.
Beetles and other insects communicate using pheromones. Verbenone – a synthetic pheromone treatment for high value pine trees – replicates the beetle pheromone, sending a message that the tree is full and that the food supply is insufficient for additional beetles. Arriving beetles receive the ‘message’ that they should look elsewhere for a suitable host.
Does Verbenone really work?
Verbenone has been used as part of integrated pest management programs (IPM) for more than a decade. Many studies show that areas treated with Verbenone, as part of an IPM program, fare significantly better than those that are not.
How safe is Verbenone?
Verbenone is environmentally safe and non-toxic to humans, pets, birds, and even the beetles themselves. Always follow the instructions provided.
How to use Verbenone.
Staple or nail the first Verbenone pouch 7 feet high (2m) on the north face of the tree just prior to beetle flight season (April to June, depending upon location). Attach the second pouch just prior to peak flight (usually mid-August). Each box includes two pouches of Verbenone.
Where can I purchase Verbenone?
Contech's Verbenone Pine Beetle Repellent can be purchased through our website, or at several retailers in the United States. View Retailers (PDF 20K)
Read about the signs of Green Attack
Contech’s Mountain Pine Beetle Repellent contains the pheromone
verbenone that prevents attacks by the mountain pine beetle on all
varieties of pine trees. When present in sufficient concentration,
verbenone signals incoming beetles that the target tree is too
crowded to accommodate more beetles.
Where to Use?
Contech’s Mountain Pine Beetle Repellent should be used on pine trees in:
- forests
- municipal and shade tree areas
- campgrounds
- golf courses
- parks and parkways
- ornamental and shade tree plantings
- neighborhoods
- residential properties
- ranches
- farms
- rights of way and other easements
When to Use?
Deploy Contech’s Mountain Pine Beetle Repellent when young adult
beetles are first found under the bark, 2-3 weeks prior to beetle flight,
usually May-June. Flight timing can vary with local weather, aspect
(south facing is warmer) altitude and latitude. Consult a forest health
professional to determine flight times in your area.
The expected lifespan of the Mountain Pine
Beetle Repellent is 60 to 120 days, weather
dependent. Use a second treatment
as needed.