Shipments of Christmas trees arriving from the Pacific Northwest are widely infested with slugs and other invasive pests, causing about half of the shipments to be held for treatment by the Department of Agriculture’s Plant Quarantine Branch.

Of the 150 containers inspected by state officials, authorities say, 74 were or are being held for pest identification or improper paperwork. The containers include shipments of Christmas trees and wreaths from six maritime voyages. Agricultural officials expect an additional 100 containers to arrive between now and Christmas.

Our previous blog post discusses Christmas Tree Pests. Insects can often hitchhike their way inside on your Christmas tree. Usually your home is not the best habitat for these types of insects because your home is lacking food and appropriate humidity. No Christmas tree will have every pest on the following list. In fact, most will be free of these hitchhikers.

Occasionally, one or more of the following may find its way into your home on your tree.

• Aphid is a common evergreen tree pests and the warmth inside your home may cause overwintering aphid eggs to hatch.
• Adelgids are tiny, sucking insect that secretes cottony wax filaments over its body. You will notice them if your tree looks like it had a dusting of snow.
• Bark Beetles may be found on or near the tree. They may be boring into the trunk, creating small holes and very fine sawdust. These beetles are not a threat to your home because wood inside the home is too dry for these beetles to survive.
• Spiders found on Christmas trees are predators of insects and are not dangerous to people or pets. If you find a spider remove and place outdoors, webs can be easily removed with a vacuum cleaner.

Before bringing your Christmas tree indoors:

• Inspect. Look for signs of aphids or other small insects by looking at the branches and trunk.
• Shake. Shake to dislodge insects and remove any loose needles.

What to do with the Christmas tree once inside:

• Find the perfect spot to showcase your lovely tree.
• Turn on the music tunes.
• Put up the tree and begin decorating.
• If you find any insects, do not spray aerosol pesticides. These products are flammable. Most insects are unable to survive in your inside environment. If you find any pests vacuum up any dead insects.

Thomas Pest Services wishes you and you family a happy and health holiday season. Thomas Pest Services is your local Clifton Park exterminator if you find too many insects in your Christmas tree. Contact Thomas Pest Services for a free inspection today!