Pests And Your Real Christmas Tree

There's nothing like the smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree to get you in the holiday spirit. However, when you bring in a real or cut tree, you could be inviting insects to spend the holidays with you and your family. Every Christmas tree has the possibility of hosting a number of insects including spiders, mites and beetles. These insects could remain on the tree into the winter and could become active after being introduced to the warm temperatures inside your home. Your Lake of the Ozarks pest control company has all the information you need to know about Christmas tree insects. 

Insects That Live In Christmas Trees

There are many different insects that can call your Christmas tree home from aphids and mites to spiders and beetles. Although insects may not be active during the winter months, they could lay eggs in Christmas trees. When a Christmas tree that has eggs is introduced into your warm home, they could hatch mistaking the warmth for spring. Although these insects typically don't do physical damage to your home, they can become an unwanted house guest(s) throughout the holiday season, especially if the tree you bought has eggs that hatched. 

How To Pick The Right Tree

Harmless or not, you don't want to be spending the holiday season with bugs crawling around the presents or flying into the window trying to escape. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help minimize the chances of bringing pests into your home through your Christmas tree. When choosing your perfect pest free tree, inspect it carefully including looking underneath the branches. Look for signs of aphids, adelgids or small insects. Things to look for include trees that have their own "flock", light tan, walnut-size, frothy egg masses and small holes with sawdust trails. 

What To Do Before Bringing In The Tree

Before bringing in your Christmas tree, it is a good idea to shake it vigorously to dislodge any insects and spiders. Check each branch for egg cases and prune out any you may find. It is important to get rid of any egg sack, as your home is warm which could induce the eggs to hatch. If there are any empty bird nests it is important to remove them as well as they could contain mites. 

What To Do With An Infested Tree

If you find that your Christmas tree has been infested, it is important to make sure that you properly tree it. Do not use spray aerosol pesticides to treat it as they are flammable. The best way to control a Christmas tree infestation is to bring the tree outside and safely remove the pests from it. If you find dead bugs on the floor, it is best to use a vacuum to clean them up. 

Have A Pest-Free Holiday

If your pest infestation goes beyond the tree, it is best to call a professional pest control company at the Lake of the Ozarks. From bed bugs to spiders, A B Pest Control & Insulation can make sure your home is pest free for the holidays. To schedule an appointment with a professional Lake of the Ozarks exterminator, contact us at 573-964-1100.

Lake of the Ozarks
Pest Control Company

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www.abpest.net

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