How to Kill Redheaded Flies

Also called redheaded sawflies, redheaded flies attack pine trees, causing defoliation on a once hearty tree. This will lead to a loss in the tree’s vigor and cause it to become more susceptibility to future pest attacks. Redheaded flies, as well as their larvae, are identifiable by their distinctive red head, while the adult female features a blade that resembles a saw. If left untreated, the redheaded fly larvae will attack the needles of the pine tree and may directly cause the death of the tree.

Bucket
Bleach
Chemical-resistant gloves
Pesticide approved for pine trees
Garden sprayer

Instructions

- 1
  Remove clusters of the redheaded fly larvae and eggs from pine tree needles by hand. Toss the larva and eggs into a bucket filled with a 50/50 ratio of bleach and water. This mixture will kill them.
- 2
  Put on a pair of chemical-resistant gloves to protect your hands from possible skin irritation.
- 3
  Pour a pesticide approved for pine trees in a garden sprayer. Since certain patricides are concentrated, you may have to dilute the pesticide with water before using. Read the instructions printed on the label.
- 4
  Spray the trunk, branches, bark and needles of the pine tree with the pesticide-filled garden sprayer. Only apply the pesticide on a day when the wind is calm and there is no chance of rain. Continue applying the chemical until the tree has a light coating of the pesticide.
- 5
  Repeat the entire process 10 days after the initial treatment to kill lingering redheaded flies.

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