(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture warns that disposing of a Christmas tree or wreath the wrong way could have Grinch-like consequences.
Lurking underneath the tinsel and garland are possibly pests, diseases, and invasive species. If a tree is dumped in nearby woods or the backyard compost pile, they can spread out to nearby plants. The agency says the best option is to use curbside tree collection or a city-run site.
Some of the worst offenders include a small insect named the elongate hemlock scale. These bugs are common in the northeast, where many Christmas trees, especially Fraser firs, are grown. They feed on the bottom of needles, causing them to yellow and fall out.
Wreaths sometimes carry a fungal disease named boxwood blight or the noxious weed, round leaf bittersweet. Both are capable of harming landscaping and native trees.
More information on disposing of trees or wreaths locally is here.
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