How do you rid a giant tree of pest ?

[prisana]

My orchids have been hanging out happily in and on a big tree in my backyard. A couple of weeks ago I notice scales and mealy bugs and aphids and some other strange looking bugs on some of the dead tree leaves that fell on the ground. I'm afraid that they will start to infest my orchids. But I can't exactly spray a huge tree of pest, can I ?
Is there anything I can use to safly get rid of these buggers without killing myself in the process ? I also have kids and animals playing in the backyard..so I have been too nervous to use pesticides in large quantity. Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[Ellen]

It's impossible to get rid of all these pests in the great outdoors - If you rid your tree of them, they'll still be on your neighbor's tree. The strategy I would use is to treat just the orchids with Merit. This will provide some protection for them against sucking insects.

[prisana]

Thanks Ellen ,I was thinking that but I just wasn't sure that was the best way.. now I know it's really helpless for the tree :-) , I'll follow your advice on spraying my orhchids as a prevention ,at least they will be safe . These bugs don't just stay on the tree, they drop down on your head, your drink.. ARRRRGGH.. I hate them. I'll be fine..don't worry.