The 25,000 bugs in your Christmas tree and the 2p liquid solution

As the holiday season approaches, pet owners should be aware of an unexpected threat that may be lurking in their Christmas trees. Experts at Crown Pavilions, warn that real Christmas trees can be home to a variety of pests, including spiders, mites, and aphids. These pests can pose a danger to pets, potentially causing allergic reactions or even transmitting diseases.

Research by Crown Pavilions finds that a single tree can host up to 25,000 insects, mites, or spiders, and these pests can easily transfer to your home and pets, creating an unwanted Christmas surprise. In the UK, up to 8million Christmas trees are sold annually, many of which may carry pests that threaten the health of thousands of pets. The cost to remove a tick from a pet can range from £21 to almost £600, making it essential to ensure your tree is pest-free to avoid hefty vet bills.

Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control, said: “Christmas trees can sometimes host many pests before making it into your home. Although these pests are harmless to humans, they can be a bit of a surprise to come across. The most commonly found among real Christmas trees can include:

• Adelgids – Tiny insects often found in coniferous trees, particularly firs.
• Aphids – Brown/black bugs commonly found in firs, pines, and spruce trees. These are inactive when cold but can become mobile in warmer temperatures.
• Sawflies – Feed on the needles of pine and spruce trees.
• Bark Beetles – Bore into the trunk of the tree, creating small holes in the bark.
• Psocids – Winged insects that live in the bark and feed on fungi and mould.
• Spiders – Drawn to Christmas trees to feed on other insects.”

The tell-tale signs of pests present within a Christmas tree include a white cotton-like wax from adelgids, fine sawdust from bark beetles, spiders’ webs, and egg cases.

To ensure a safe and happy holiday season for everyone, Crown Pavilions recommends the following tips for households:

1. Inspect your tree – Carefully check your Christmas tree for any visible pests before bringing it indoors. Give it a good shake to dislodge any hidden critters before you transport it back home, and before you place it.
2. Place in a cool area – Place the tree in a cool area like a garage or covered porch for a day or two to give any remaining pests a chance to exit the tree.
3. Vacuum or physically dislodge pests – Once the tree is inside, keep the area around the tree clean by vacuuming frequently and give the tree a gentle shake occasionally to dislodge hidden pests.
4. Cost-effective treatments – The best way to eliminate pests and insects is by using pet-safe pest control treatments, such as:

• Natural insect repellents – Create a spray using essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, or lavender mixed with water.
• Neem oil – A non-toxic, organic insecticide effective at all life stages of insects and safe for household pets.
• Vinegar solution – A concoction of white vinegar and water can be used to repel insects and pests by lightly misting the Christmas tree due to its disinfectant properties.

Luke Dejahang, Gardening Expert and CEO of Crown Pavilions, adds: “Keeping your Christmas tree free from pests not only protects your pets but also ensures a healthier and happier holiday season for the whole family simply by following these tips.”