Prediction models of Nantucket pine tip moth, Rhyacionia frustrana (Comstock) (Lep., Tortricidae) infestation using soil and tree factors

Abstract: Prediction models for estimating infestations by Nantucket pine tip moth (NPTM), Rhyacionia frustrana (Comstock) in young loblolly pine plantations in East Texas were developed using multivariate regression analysis based on selected soil and tree factors. Results of regression models show that foliage nutrients, tree water potential and tree height play important roles in NPTM infestation. Overall, these factors predict whole tree infestation better than top two whorls infestation. The importance and correlation of the factors differed for the prediction model of top two whorl and whole tree infestations.