Pests Travel Into Homes on Christmas Trees

FAIRFAX, Va. (November 26, 2012) – Christmas trees are a treasured holiday decoration for many people, but they can come with unwanted holiday surprises – pests. In fact, an article posted today on MauiNow.com reports that shipments of Christmas trees arriving from the Pacific Northwest were widely infested with slugs and other invasive pests.

This article is a good reminder for people to check the Christmas tree and other decorations for pests as they begin to decorate the home for the holidays. 

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) encourages people to inspect live, fresh cut evergreen trees, wreathes and garlands for spiders, insect nests or eggs before purchasing. In addition, shake greenery outdoors to remove any pests before bringing them inside and unpack decorations outdoors so pests aren’t released into the home.

If an infestation occurs, partner with a local, licensed pest professional to inspect and treat the problem.