Insects and diseases can hitch a ride on trees and holiday greenery brought across state lines. Inspections of holiday products often target pests such as elongate hemlock scale, boxwood blight, round leaf bittersweet, spongy moth, and more. To protect local ecosystems, learn about these pests and how to dispose of holiday greenery properly by consulting trusted resources.
If you notice signs of pests on your holiday greenery, report them to your local agricultural authority.
Elongate Hemlock Scale
Elongate hemlock scale (Fiorinia externa) primarily hides on the underside of conifer needles. Small and inconspicuous, it often looks like dirt or debris.
Spongy Moth
Spongy moths (Lymantria dispar) lay egg masses on natural and artificial surfaces, including Christmas trees. These quarter-sized, fuzzy, tan egg masses contain 500 to 1,000 eggs and often appear on tree trunks and branches.
Boxwood Blight
Holiday wreaths, garlands, and planters often contain boxwood, an evergreen shrub with dark green, rounded leaves. Boxwood blight, caused by the invasive fungus Calonectria pseudonaviculata, results in leaf spots, stem lesions, and leaf drop.
Spotted Lanternfly
Spotted lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula) lay egg masses on both natural and artificial surfaces, including Christmas trees and greenery. These yellowish-brown masses, covered in a gray waxy coating, are difficult to detect.
Inspect holiday greenery carefully, and report any pest issues to local authorities to help protect your environment.
