Insights, Tips, and Tales

Keep Your Christmas Tree Critter Free this Year!

_ëîé_1

Keep Your Christmas Tree Critter Free this Year!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year with homes merry and bright with Christmas lights and decorations! If you’re like me, your Christmas decorations were put up a few days after Thanksgiving and Black Friday, and more than likely neither of us checked our tree for BUGS!

While it is rare to have an infested tree, you should be aware of common Christmas tree bugs including adelgids, aphids, bark beetles, mites, praying mantises, spiders, moths, and webworms. The good news is these pests are more annoying than harmful to you and your home. If you should find yourself with a bigger pest problem, Waynes is just a call away to make it a critter-free Christmas.

Whether you set up an artificial or real Christmas tree, follow these quick steps to keep it critter-free this Christmas.

Real Christmas Trees

  • Complete a thorough inspection of the trunk, branches, and needles for signs of bugs and critters.
  • Ask to have the Christmas tree placed on a tree shaker if one is available; this process removes most pests and loose pine needles. If unavailable, blow off the tree at home with a leaf blower or leave the tree in your garage for a few days and shake well outside before bringing it indoors.
  • Take an extra step by spraying your tree with organic neem oil to kill any remaining bugs.
  • Once decorated vacuum around the tree picking up any fallen pine needles and pests.

Artificial Christmas Trees

  • Give your tree a thorough cleaning before decorating using a light vacuuming to remove dust, pests and possibly eggs.
  • To store your tree, remove decorations, such as decorative candy canes, popcorn garlands or gingerbread cookies, which could attract unwanted pests. Proper storage of your artificial tree helps prevent pests so be sure the tree is placed in an airtight container and stored in a dry area of your home.

 

Have a Merry Christmas!

NOTE: For both trees avoid using harsh pesticides and flammable aerosol pesticides. Keep in mind that the pests on your tree prefer the forest environment from which it came and the warmth of your home has likely triggered their instinct to awaken for spring. These pests will eventually dry out and die due to habitat change or lack of food and water. However, regular pest control treatments are recommended to prevent long-term problems. For more information, give us a call to customize a plan for your home today at 1-866-WAYNES1.

Latest from Waynes Blog

Protect Your Home from Rodents and Hantavirus

The recent passing of Betsy Arakawa, wife of Gene Hackman, due to Hantavirus has raised awareness of rodent-borne diseases. While contracting Hantavirus is rare, it’s essential to take precautions against mice in your home. Why Are Rodents a Problem? Each year, 21 million U.S. homes experience rodent intrusions, especially in colder months. Mice and rats…

Learn More >

Lawn Scalping: The Ultimate Spring Refresh

You’ve endured the sight of brown grass all winter long, and you’re probably eager to see your lush lawn return this spring. Start the season on the right foot by giving your lawn a fresh start with a good scalping. What is Lawn Scalping? Lawn scalping (or grass scalping) is the process of cutting your…

Learn More >

Protect Your Home from Moisture and Pests with Crawl Space Encapsulation

Your home is your sanctuary, and keeping it safe from moisture, mold, and pests is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Waynes now offers Crawl Space Encapsulation and Restoration Services in our Knoxville, TN and Huntsville, AL service areas! Why Crawl Space Encapsulation Matters Many homeowners overlook…

Learn More >

6 Tips for a Pest-Free Home This Winter

As temperatures drop, pests like rodents, cockroaches, spiders, and wildlife are looking for a warm place to bundle up. Don’t let it be your home! Stay cozy and pest-free with these cold-weather tips: Seal Up Entry Points: Check for cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations. Even the smallest openings can invite unwanted pests…

Learn More >

Waynes Pest Control Acquires Gulf Coast Pest Control (FL)

Waynes Pest Control and Gulf Coast Pest Control Unite to Expand Service in the Florida Panhandle On September 11, 2024, Waynes Pest Control proudly merged with Gulf Coast Pest Control to expand our service area and offerings in the Florida Panhandle. This partnership allows us to continue providing the exceptional customer support and high-quality pest…

Learn More >

The Journey to Our 1000th Truck

At Waynes Pest Control, we’ve always believed that success is built on trust, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to service. Today, we’re proud to celebrate a monumental achievement: our 1,000th truck is officially on the road! This milestone marks more than just an increase in numbers—it’s a testament to the relationships we’ve built with…

Learn More >

Honoring Our Heroes this Veterans Day

At Waynes Pest Control, we proudly honor the service and sacrifice of all U.S. military veterans. On this Veterans Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who have served, defended, and sacrificed for our nation. Your unwavering courage, dedication, and commitment have kept us safe, and we are truly thankful…

Learn More >

Wildlife Removal: Your Guide to Safe and Effective Solutions

When unexpected wildlife makes its way into your home, it can lead to many challenges, from property damage to health risks. Wildlife removal is a crucial service that helps homeowners and businesses deal with these intrusions safely and humanely. In this guide, we’ll dive into the essentials of wildlife removal, covering the importance of professional…

Learn More >

Rodent Awareness Week: How to Protect Your Home from Winter Rodent Infestations

As temperatures drop and the cozy indoors become more inviting, so do the chances of unwanted rodent guests entering your home. In honor of Rodent Awareness Week, Waynes is here to alert homeowners to the surge of rodent invasions during the fall and winter months. An estimated 21 million homes are invaded by rodents each…

Learn More >

Scroll to Top