Dogwood sawfly
Macremphytus tarsatus
23 host plants
Last updated
This profile contains verified pest data from extension databases. Regional field notes and expert review are in progress.
Dogwood sawfly larvae feed on dogwood foliage, creating skeletonized areas where they consume leaf tissue while leaving veins intact. You will see lacy, brown-looking leaves that may eventually drop. Damage appears in early summer as larvae move through new growth. Cornus species including Cornelian cherry and kousa dogwood are affected. Infested trees look unsightly but usually recover as they push new growth.
Monitor new foliage regularly starting in late spring for the first appearance of skeletonization. Prune out lightly infested branches and remove them from the site. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) applied early when you see young larvae feeds on leaf tissue with minimal impact on beneficial insects. Most dogwoods tolerate leaf loss without serious harm. Allow natural parasitoid populations to establish; they provide effective control over time without intervention.
Quick Reference
Dogwood sawfly Larva early instar typically begins around 3229 GDD₃₂. As of April 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂, approximately 1636 units before the expected threshold.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 23, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,593 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,636 |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,675 |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,692 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,725 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,746 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,757 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | Pre-season | Larva early instar | 1,795 |
Source: UMD IPMnet catalog. Sources: UMD: extension.umd.edu. About GDD₃₂ →