Chiggers In Spanish Moss!

Chiggers in Spanish Moss

Spanish moss is a unique plant that is found all over the United States and is also found in Mexico, Cuba, and other parts of Central America. This plant is usually found in trees, on telephone wires, and in other areas. Spanish moss is an air plant that hangs from branches and grows in tree canopies. While it looks like moss and is often mistaken for it, Spanish moss is actually an entirely different species and does not need soil to grow.

Chiggers and Spanish Moss

Unfortunately, Spanish moss does attract one unwanted guest – chiggers. Chiggers are tiny mites that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They can cause annoying and itchy red bumps that should be treated as soon as possible with an anti-itch cream or medication. Chiggers are most commonly found in areas with tall grass, but they can also be found in Spanish moss.

Preventing Chiggers in Spanish Moss

Fortunately, there are few steps that can be taken to prevent chigger infestations in Spanish moss.

- Keep the Spanish moss trimmed back: Trimming back the Spanish moss can reduce the likelihood of chiggers living in it.

- Spray insect repellent on the Spanish moss: Spraying insect repellent on the Spanish moss can help keep the chiggers away from it. Be sure to choose an insect repellent that is safe for use on plants.

- Wear Protective Clothing: Wear clothing that covers most of your skin when working around Spanish moss. Wearing long sleeves and pants can help reduce your chances of getting bitten by chiggers.

- Clean the Area: Regularly cleaning the area where the Spanish moss is located can help reduce the number of chiggers. Vacuum the branches, remove any debris, and dust off any leaves that may attract chiggers.

By taking these steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of getting bitten by chiggers while working with or around Spanish moss.

Winter in the south has its benefits, but with it comes chiggers in Spanish moss.

Native to the southeastern United States, chiggers are a type of mite that live in or near Spanish moss. While these mites look harmless, they have been known to irritate the skin, causing red bumps and itching.

Chiggers typically live in groups and can be found near Spanish moss during most of the winter months. During the warmer seasons, they can be found in short grass and weeds. Chiggers can be difficult to spot, but they can be identified by the small white tubes they form when they burrow into the skin.

When bitten by a chigger, the area will itch and swell. The irritation can last up to a week and can be treated with creams, gels, and ointments. If the itching persists, visit your local doctor or healthcare provider to be sure the affected area is not infected.

Though chiggers aren’t likely to cause any major health problems, they can be quite bothersome. To avoid the itch, it’s best to avoid touching or walking through Spanish moss. If you do come in contact with this material, take a shower as soon as possible and wash clothing and exposed areas with soap and water.

While the bites of chiggers in Spanish moss can be uncomfortable, they often dissipate on their own. By taking the appropriate measures, you can avoid them and be back to healthy skin in no time.