News & Information
Real vs. Artificial
December 15, 2009
Like the age old debate of "Less Filling – Tastes Great," the question of "Real or Artificial" still plagues man. Regardless of what kind of tree you choose, there are a few pests which may take away from your holiday cheer.
For those traditional Paul Bunyan types, there are many pests you may encounter which feed on the tree itself. These include tiny bark adelgids, Cinara and balsam twig aphids and pine tortoise and striped pine scale. Fortunately, other than being a nuisance, these species are host-specific and pose no danger to any common house plants.
Several species of bark beetles might also emerge from their winter slumber. Although they do bore into bark and wood, the furnishing and structural parts of your home are usually too dry for the beetles to survive. The same can be said for psocids (booklice).
Predatory mites (bird parasites) may also become active in your warm home. They generally remain on the tree feeding on mite and insect eggs. A relative of the chigger, they can bite but are no real threat to humans or pets. Just be sure to inspect for and remove any bird nests before bringing your tree indoors.
Praying mantids frequently attach their egg masses to conifer limbs. If indoors for several weeks, the tiny mantids may hatch. The best defense is to inspect the tree for the tan, walnut-sized egg mass and remove it; placing it outdoors in a shrub or tree.
Spiders are a pest for both real and artificial trees. Brown recluse spiders frequently inhabit poorly sealed cardboard boxes (and mice will chew through and nest inside.) Storing your holiday decorations in airtight plastic containers will help keep pests in the attic and out of your living space. If you know your home has brown recluse, wear gloves when unpacking these items to avoid a defensive bite.
An ounce of prevention and a little education can go far in making sure your holiday decorations only add to the merriment and don't become an active participant.