Selecting the perfect Christmas tree is a cherished holiday tradition. Whether you’re debating between a Fraser fir, Balsam, Douglas fir, or Pine, there’s another factor to consider: Are you bringing bugs—or even squirrels—into your home? Conifer trees can be winter hideaways for many insects and even small animals, so your perfect tree might have some unexpected passengers. But don’t worry—with a little know-how and a dash of holiday spirit, you can keep your home festive and pest-free.
Tips for a Bug-Free Tree
- Inspect Before You Buy: Bring a flashlight and take a good look at the tree. Examine the trunk, branches, and needles for signs of insects, webs, egg sacs, or even small animal nests. If you spot any critters or suspicious areas, consider choosing a different tree or plan to prune affected branches when you get home.
- Shake It Off: At the tree lot, give your tree a vigorous shake—or have it mechanically shaken if the service is available. This helps dislodge insects, debris, and any sleepy squirrels. Before bringing it inside, shake it again to ensure any lingering bugs take their leave.
- Let It Rest: Before setting up your tree indoors, let it sit in your garage or a sheltered area for a day or two. This gives any remaining insects or critters time to vacate due to the change in environment.
- Vacuum Vigilantly: After bringing your tree inside, vacuum around the area to pick up any stray insects or debris. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and place it in an outdoor trash bin.
Who’s Hiding in the Christmas Tree?
Several insect and arachnid species—and occasionally small animals—use pine and spruce trees for winter shelter. Fortunately, most of them pose little threat to your health or home. Here’s a festive rundown of the usual suspects:
Adelgids
Adelgids are tiny insects related to aphids. They feed on the sap of conifer trees and often cluster together, producing white, cottony tufts that can resemble a light dusting of snow—adding a bit of natural “flocking” to your tree. They’re sedentary and won’t leave the tree, so they pose no risk indoors.
Aphids
Most aphids are so small you might not notice them. Some species are larger and more visible. Aphids that live on Christmas trees aren’t suited to indoor life and typically die quickly once inside. Think of them as uninvited but harmless holiday guests.
Bark Beetles
Bark beetles are rice-sized, hard-bodied beetles that burrow into tree bark. If you notice tiny holes with fine sawdust, they might be the culprits. They require high humidity to survive and won’t infest wooden structures or furniture in your home. So, your wooden nutcrackers are safe!
Mites and Spiders
While the idea of mites and spiders might make you squirm, they’re actually beneficial—they feed on other pests inhabiting the tree. They’re unlikely to venture away from the tree and pose little risk. Consider them the tree’s tiny guardians, keeping other pests at bay.
Praying Mantises
Occasionally, you might find a praying mantis egg sac, known as an ootheca (pronounced oh-uh-thee-kuh), attached to your tree. These tan, walnut-sized masses can contain up to 400 eggs. New England is home to two introduced species: the European and Chinese praying mantis. If you spot an egg mass, carefully remove the branch and place it in your garden or a nearby tree outdoors. Come spring, you’ll have a team of natural pest controllers!
Psocids
Also known as booklice (wingless) or barklice (winged), psocids are small insects that feed on mold, fungus, and dead insects. Despite their name, they’re not true lice and are harmless to humans, pets, and structures. They require high humidity and won’t survive long indoors.
Pine Needle Scale
Pine needle scale insects attach themselves to pine and spruce needles, sucking sap under a waxy shell. Their eggs overwinter beneath the deceased mother’s shell and may hatch indoors due to the warmth. The tiny red “crawlers” that emerge might wander onto floors or walls. Gently wipe them off with a damp cloth—just be cautious, as they can leave a red stain. Fun fact: these insects are relatives of the cochineal scale insect, which is used to create natural red dye!
Squirrels
Yes, occasionally, a small squirrel might find your Christmas tree an attractive winter shelter. While the chances are slim—and it’s not quite a scene from a holiday comedy—it can happen. A thorough inspection and a good shake should encourage any sleepy squirrels to find a new home before you bring the tree inside.
A Few More Tips for a Cheerful, Pest-Free Holiday
- Avoid Sprays: Refrain from using household pesticides or aerosol bug sprays on your tree. These can be flammable and pose fire hazards, especially near decorative lights—nobody wants their holiday to go up in smoke!
- Mind the Decorations: When bringing out stored ornaments, give them a quick check for any signs of pests that might have made a home in your storage boxes over the year.
- Embrace Nature: Remember, a few harmless hitchhikers are a small price to pay for the natural beauty and aroma of a real Christmas tree. Most will perish quickly indoors or can be easily managed.
From all of us at Modern Pest, we wish you a joyful, relaxing, and pest-free holiday season! May your home be filled with warmth, laughter, and maybe just a spruce of adventure.