Check For Invasive Pests On Out-Of-State Christmas Trees And Decor

Saturday, November 19th, 2022 -- 7:45 AM

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is reminding consumers to check for invasive pests before purchasing live out-of-state Christmas trees and holiday décor.

In previous years, plant health inspectors have intercepted cut trees and décor infested with invasive pests coming into Wisconsin from other states. The non-native, invasive pest known as the elongate hemlock scale (EHS) has been found multiple times on fir wreaths, Christmas trees, baskets, and boughs sourced from eastern states. EHS is a threat to Wisconsin’s Christmas trees, native hemlock, and balsam fir forests, and a quarantine rule has been proposed to prevent this pest from establishing in Wisconsin. Inspectors have also occasionally detected boxwood blight fungus and invasive bittersweet on wreaths, spongy moth egg masses on cut conifer trees, and dead spotted lanternflies on nursery Stock. 

To help protect Wisconsin’s natural resources and Christmas tree industry, check trees and wreaths for pests. To identify EHS, look for discolored needles and small brown, scale insects under oblong coverings on the underside of the needles. 

Wisconsin is home to more than 375 licensed Christmas tree farms that sell trees, wreaths, garlands, and other décor.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.