I thought I'd just planted to late... probably contributing factor, tree stressed. Today mulched, bought a slow soaking waterer, and decided to trim the foot of dead growth I thought to be due to hot weather, underwatering and stress. When I cut off the top, the cross section showed four holes, that looked like they were occupied by something white, that I think I lopped in half. Any ideas? The tree seems fine below the foot, but is dying slowly downward. Of course I'd love to save it.
Sounds like white pine weevil, Pissodes strobi. They will attack Picea omorika as well as a number of other spruce and pines. Google this pest and its damage to see if it resembles your damage. Ian
