A major consideration for Virginia pine tree production is the ability to carefully monitor for pests. Producers who infrequently visit their production site are at a disadvantage to detect pest outbreaks early. In these instances, a preventive program for pest suppression is often attempted, with erratic results. Optimally, pests should be monitored visually or with commercially available devices such as pheromone traps or frequent inspection. A number of production practices can influence pest outbreaks.
Site selection is an important consideration.
Plants grown in poor soil or in moisture stress conditions become more vulnerable to outbreaks of pests such as the deodar weevil. Pruning practices can eliminate undesirable pest damage such as that caused by the Nantucket pine tip moth. Prior to sale of trees, careful inspection can detect and eliminate trees of poor quality and those with obvious pest damage. Aphid and scale outbreaks cause trees to darken. This organism is black in color and can reduce the aesthetic value of the Christmas tree.