By Scout Nelson
Holiday trees wreath and decorative greenery add beauty during the festive season. However, once the holidays end these items can pose a risk to Minnesota’s forests if not disposed of properly. Invasive pests and plant diseases can hide in holiday foliage brought into the state from other regions.
To protect trees and natural landscapes the Minnesota Department of Agriculture encourages residents to follow safe disposal practices. Proper handling helps prevent harmful insect's weeds and diseases from spreading into local environments.
The best option for disposal is to use curbside tree collection programs or designated drop off sites. Many cities' counties and waste haulers offer seasonal tree pickup services. Residents can also check yard waste compost locations to see if they accept holiday trees and greenery.
Trees and greenery should not be dumped in backyard woods fields or home compost piles. Doing so increases the risk of spreading invasive species or plant diseases into natural areas where they are difficult to control. Wreaths of garlands and other decorative greens that cannot be composted should be placed in trash containers.
If organized pickup or drop off options are not available, burning greenery may be a last resort. Before burning, residents should always check local fire conditions for burning restrictions and city or county ordinances to avoid safety risks.
Several invasive pests and diseases are a concern. One example is elongate hemlock scale a small insect found in parts of the eastern United States. This pest can damage fir spruce and hemlock trees by causing needles to yellow and fall early. Other risks include boxwood blight a fungal disease and round leaf bittersweet an invasive weed sometimes found on wreaths and centerpieces.
Residents who believe their holiday greenery may be infested are encouraged to report concerns promptly. Early reporting helps prevent the spread of harmful pests and protects Minnesota’s forests for future generations.
By following proper disposal steps residents play an important role in protecting trees natural habitats and the long-term health of Minnesota’s forests.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nathaniel-young
Categories: Minnesota, General