Signs of Spotted Lanterfly
Through regular scouting activities and the development of best management practices, the industry is proactively combating Spotted Lanternfly and other invasive species
PHILADELPHIA (PRWEB) December 17, 2018
One of the most delightful traditions about the holidays is the Christmas Tree. However, with the recent invasion of the Spotted Lanternfly, many Pennsylvanians are left wondering if they should be hesitant about bringing a possible tainted topiary into the home for the holidays. The experts at Giroud Tree and Lawn share if homeowners should be worried about buying live Christmas trees and what to look for on trees.
The Tradition of the Christmas Tree
Moving evergreens indoors in wintertime to celebrate the solstice has been a tradition for centuries, although the Christmas tree got a boost in popularity in America in the late 19th century. In the last 150 years, the Christmas tree has become a staple in many homes across the world. Here in Pennsylvania, we have a booming Christmas tree industry. According to the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association, PA ranks third in the nation for the number of Christmas tree farms.
Should Homeowners Be Worried About Spotted Lanternfly on Christmas Tree?
While Spotted Lanternfly have invaded Pennsylvania heavily in the last few years, there's not much cause for concern on Christmas Conifers. The PA Department of Agriculture has been working closely with the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association to diligently train all tree growers on proper inspection practices. Although the Spotted Lanternfly has been seen on many species of trees, the insects don't appear to show an interest in the varieties used for Christmas trees. PCTGA recently issued a press release to address the issue. In part, they state:
“Pennsylvania’s Christmas tree industry is a treasure to the commonwealth, and our growers take their commitment to consumer satisfaction and high quality products seriously. Through regular scouting activities and the development of best management practices, the industry is proactively combating Spotted Lanternfly and other invasive species.” -Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Fred Strathmeyer.
Inspect Before Purchasing a Christmas Tree
Homeowners should always check any live tree before bringing it home. All sorts of insects and critters can hang out in a live tree, so it's best to do a full inspection before purchase. However, other than the occasional spider, homeowners can rest assured that PA Christmas Tree growers are adhering to strict standards and checking trees before they head to the lot.
If homeowners are still concerned about Spotted Lanternfly in particular, know what to look for! At this time of year, all of the adults have died, but they've left behind egg masses which will hatch in the spring. Giroud Tree and Lawn's informative YouTube video explains how to recognize Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses and how to remove and destroy them:
“We encourage all Christmas tree lovers to enjoy everything that a real tree adds to the season. It’s a great family tradition and a way to support your local agricultural community. I know that it won’t deter me from having a real tree in my home again this year.” -Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association Executive Director, Denise Calabrese.
About Giroud Tree and Lawn
Giroud Tree and Lawn specializes in tree service, lawn care and mosquito and tick control programs that make customers love doing business with the company since 1974. Serving Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, the company offers professional tree and lawn evaluation, tree pruning, tree removal, insect and disease control, fertilizing, stump removal, traditional and 100% organic lawn programs and mosquito and tick control. Giroud Arborists are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and have the knowledge and experience required to properly diagnose, treat and maintain trees and lawn health. The company is Accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association and Better Business Bureau. Giroud has also been awarded the Angie's List Super Service Award® every year since 2005. The “Giroud Treework for Charity” program donates free tree care services to parks, historical sites and other non-profit organizations located in the Company’s service area. For more information, visit the company website at http://www.giroudtree.com or call 215-682-7704.
