"Symptoms of pine wilt begin to occur in mid summer and continue into early winter in Kansas," the Kansas Department of Agriculture states. Pine wilt disease is caused by a pine wood nematode, a type of parasitic roundworm. Pine wilt disease is commonly seen in Scots pine, especially in the Eastern part of the state.
Check pines often for symptoms including: flagging of branches, wilting of needles, and absence of resin in branches. There is no definite cure and effected trees often dye rapidly. To maintain your yard, diversify by planting a variety of tree species, including Ponderosa pines. (Ponderosa pines seem to be resistant to pine wilt).
If you think your tree may be effected, read this article by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. You may not be able to save your tree, but you can help prevent the spread of pine wilt through your property and beyond.
For pine wilt control, tree health care, and tree trimming: contact Cartwright Tree Care in Kansas and Missouri. Visit www.cartwrighttree.com or call 816-965-6758.