Christmas Tree Hitchhikers

By: Jodi Henke

Our family loves going out to get a live Christmas tree. The tree farm we go to has a mechanical shaker, and there’s always something that falls out. Dead needles, bird nests, and especially bugs are all things I’m happy to leave behind.

Keith Jarvi is an extension educator at the University of Nebraska. He says even though it’s chilly outside, any Christmas tree can harbor insects, especially aphids and spiders. So when you’re out shopping for one, take a close look at it.