Cypress tip moth

Cypress tip moth larvae bore into juniper and similar conifer shoot tips, causing them to wilt, discolor, and fail to grow normally. You will see brown, stunted shoot tips with small entrance holes and webbing in late spring through early summer. Damage accumulates on the outer portions of the plant, eventually creating a ragged, sparse appearance. Small shoots are most affected; large trees tolerate moderate damage.

Prune out infested tips before July to prevent moth emergence and stop population buildup. Dispose of pruned material in sealed containers; do not compost. Maintain plant health through regular watering and avoid over-fertilizing, which encourages new growth that moths prefer. Horticultural oil applied in late winter targets overwintering pupae in damaged tips. Most trees recover well from pruning and retain good appearance with regular removal of infested growth.