Good afternoon, fellow PestListers - An artificial one also won't be dropping needles and sap everywhere. Even if there aren't tree-eating bugs on the live tree, the live tree can harbor a multitude of other pests, including spiders, ants and bats (I kid you not). Additionally, you are talking about the dirt that a live tree is planted in or a quantity of water if we are speaking about a 'cut' live tree. Both big no-no's to bring inside a controlled environment that must be kept extremely clean. A 'cut' live tree might also have to be treated with a fire-retardant per the local Fire Marshall, especially if displayed in a space the public visits. Regards, Meg .. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _____ Margaret E. Geiss-Mooney Textile/Costume Conservator and Collections Management Consultant Professional Associate, AIC [email protected]
....How about using an artificial one? Bringing in a live tree can mean bringing in insects.... ...I received an inquiry from another museum about the possibility of displaying a Christmas tree in their building. I don't know where they want to display it or for how long. Are there any specific pests associated with trees that are potentially harmful to museum collections? Are there any trees that are better or worse than others in terms of pests?...
