Nothing says Christmas quite like a freshly cut Christmas tree. They are so beautiful and fill your home with a lovely aroma, but bringing home a living tree also invites small pests and insects along with it. Thankfully there are many ways to get rid of these critters, but first, let’s discuss the types of pests that could be inhabiting your tree – and now your home.
Aphids are inactive, tiny and usually go unnoticed. They can only survive by feeding on certain plants and will not feed on your houseplants. Aphids can be found on the lower boughs of the tree and are common in Evergreen, Balsam Fir and Spruce trees.
Bark beetles are hard-bodied, red, black and brown bugs that are about the size of a grain of rice. They create small holes and sawdust trails on the trunk of the tree and are common in Monterey pines, White Fir and Junipers.
Mites are not a threat to people or animals, but they can cause premature needle dropping and make small, red stains on ornaments or carpets. They are found in white pines, Douglas fir, spruce trees and Fraser fir.
Praying mantises can be found on any type of Christmas tree. They are walnut sized and a light tan color. Praying Mantises swarm over the tree in search of food.
These pests are just a few of the many that can be found in your Christmas tree. The good news is that there are ways to prevent them – like leaving the Christmas tree in your garage for a few days or vacuuming up any insects you see in or around the tree. You can also dust the tree with DichotomousEarth or spray to kill any bugs still on the tree.
If you are in need of pest control services contact Apple Pest Control. We provide San Antonio and the surrounding area with commercial and residential pest control service, tree and lawn care and wildlife removal. We also provide organic pest control services.
