red dust from conifer tree

[stainsby]

I have a conifer tree in my garden and have noticed that it is covered in redish, pinkish dust.  Does anyone no what it is ? thanks

[Clanad]

Here in the U.S., among many different varieties of conifers, the color of the dust you describe usually indicates a pine bark boring beetle infestation.  There are a number of different borers.  Although it is almost pollen season here, pollen from such trees is usually yellow in color.

If your tree has "pitch tubes" or pitch running down from wounds in the bark, this tend to confirm the attack by borers.  Take a small knife and excavate such a pitch "wound" if it exists.  The beetle (actually, its larvae)should be just under the bark.  Just my best guess based on my experience... Good luck though!

Check here for more information:

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7421.html