Christmas Trees And Pests - What You Need To Know

If you have seen National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, you may remember the part where a squirrel jumps out of the family Christmas tree. If you are buying a live tree, this may stick with you and you may wonder whether pests can really live on a tree and if they can enter your home through a tree. Here is some information you will want to know about pests and Christmas trees:

Pests Can Live on Christmas Trees

Unfortunately, pests can live on Christmas trees. Fortunately for you though, the chances of larger pests, such as birds or squirrels, living on the tree are extremely low. But what is more common are smaller pests, such as insects. This can include bugs, such as spiders, aphids, mites, sawflies, and bark beetles. Many lots and stores that sell pre-cut trees dust their trees with pesticides to keep bugs off. As such, this problem is rare, but it can happen, and you need to be aware that it can occur. 

Examine Your Tree Before You Bring it In

The best way to prevent these pests from making their way from a Christmas tree into your home is to thoroughly examine any Christmas tree you are considering buying. If you are buying a pre-cut tree, take the time to look over the tree. Look and see if there are pests flying around the tree, if you notice pests climbing on the branches, or if you notice tiny bugs on the needles. If you notice pests on the tree, it may be best to move on to another tree. Once you bring the tree home, take the time to examine it a second time before bringing it into your home.

Home Remedies Can Minimize Infestation

If you have noticed that you are dealing with pests around your Christmas tree, you can treat the area and typically contain the infestation before it spreads. Sprinkling Diatomaceous Earth around the base of the tree or spraying the tree with neem oil can help to kill most types of pests. Otherwise, look for treatment specific to the type of pest you are dealing with.  While it is rare, you can bring pests into your home by bringing in a live Christmas tree. 

If you notice an infestation after you have brought in a tree and you don't want to treat it yourself, or home treatment is not helping, call in pest control services as soon as possible. They can help to stop the infestation before it puts a damper on your holiday spirit.