Basking in the glow of the lights of your freshly cut and decorated Christmas tree, you begin to notice movement coming from the tree that was not there when you brought it home.
Insects.
Why Are There Insects in My Christmas Tree?
Any time you bring a live Christmas tree into your Houston home, you risk bringing pests with it. According to Texas A&M, naturally occurring predators and parasites usually keep the pest population of Texas pine trees at low levels. However, the use of insecticides to control one insect can result in an outbreak of another by getting rid of their natural predators. From the Nantucket pine tip moth to pine aphids, from pine sawyer beetles to fire ants, Christmas trees in all of their fragrant beauty can offer a new holiday challenge – how to get rid of an infestation.
Types Of Christmas Tree Insects
APHIDS
Aphids love the winter months and use the cooler weather to multiply in droves. Generally these insects cause visible tree damage but in some cases, they are transported with the tree. Before you load the tree into your car, tap the tree trunk against a hard surface or beat different parts of the tree with stiff paper. This can dislodge the critters, letting you know if the tree is infested.
RED IMPORTED FIRE ANTS
If you are cutting your own tree this year, beware of red imported fire ants. Christmas tree lots that have been infested with fire ants usually post signs warning sensitive customers about the risk. However, in many cases, these stinging pests can hitch a ride home on your tree, quickly infesting your home.
How Do I Get Rid Of Christmas Tree Insects?
Whether used to control Christmas tree pests or everyday insects, insecticides are poisonous and should only be used by professionals in accordance with the product warnings and guidelines. The only way to ensure your the safety of your family and pets is to enlist the help of a qualified professional exterminator.
Preventative Pest Control’s residential pest control service eliminates Christmas tree pest issues you have now and prevents future issues from ever happening. Our pest control in Houston is fast, affordable and performed with a guarantee. If Christmas tree pests persist in ruining your holiday season, will provide additional service, upon request, between regularly scheduled visits at no additional cost for you. For the highest quality pest control in Houston, contact us today for your free consultation.