Selecting and Caring For Your Christmas Tree
The key to caring for your tree is to ensure that the tree stays
as fresh as possible. One of the many benefits of selecting a live
tree is that you are sure to get a very fresh tree. If you do decide
to buy a precut tree there are a few tests you can perform to make
sure that the tree is fairly fresh. First, gently grasp a branch
between your thumb and forefinger and pull it toward you. Very few
needles should come off in your hand. Second, take a look at the
ground around the tree. You should not see an excessive amount of
green needles on the ground. Some interior loss of brown needles
is normal and will occur over the lifetime of the tree.
Once you have chosen your tree, whether you cut it yourself or purchased
a precut tree, you should keep it in water in a sheltered, unheated
area such as a porch or garage to protect it from the wind and sun
until you're ready to decorate it.
Before you set up your tree, make a fresh, straight cut across
the base of the trunk - about half an inch up from the original
cut, and immediately place the tree in a tree stand that holds a
minimum of one gallon of water.
Caring for your tree is easy. The important thing to remember is
that real trees need water daily. Never let your tree stand go dry.
A general rule of thumb is to use a tree stand that holds a minimum
of one gallon of water for any cut Christmas tree that is five to
seven feet in height.
A tree will absorb as much as a gallon of water in the first 24
hours and one or more quarts a day thereafter. Water is important
because it prevents needles from drying and boughs from drooping.
In addition, keep your tree away from heat and draft sources like
fireplaces, radiators and television sets. Test your light cords
and connections before hanging them on the tree to make sure they're
in good working order. Don't use cords with cracked insulation or
broken or empty sockets. Always be sure to unplug lights before
you go to bed or leave the house.
Sensible precautions such as these will help preserve the unique
beauty and tradition only a real Christmas tree can provide.
Christmas Tree FAQ's
1. How long will a Christmas tree last?
A real Christmas tree can last up to two months with the proper
care and set up.
2. How hard is it to cut down a Christmas tree?
It's not as difficult as you might think. You can cut the tree yourself
or the folks at the tree farm can help you. They'll also wrap it
up and help you secure it to your car for the trip home.
3. What does the phrase "real tree" refer to?
The phrase "Real tree" means just as the it implies, that the tree
was grown from a seedling as opposed to an artificial tree which
was fabricated from plastic to look like a tree.
4. If I cut down my own tree do I then need to prune and trim
it?
A Christmas tree is pruned as it grows ensuring that the tree is
"full". A full tree is far more attractive and will look better
when decorated.
5. If I don't cut my own tree and buy a precut tree, how will
I know the tree is fresh?
A precut tree is rarely as fresh as one you cut yourself. These
trees may have been transported over a great distance, and time
has elapsed since the tree was cut. Trees need water to remain fresh.
There are some simple tests you can do to check the freshness of
tree.
6. Do I need to bring my own saw when cutting my own tree at
a tree farm?
All you need to bring is proper clothing to keep you warm and dry
when you go out into the farm to choose your tree. The tree farm
will have saws for you to use to cut down your tree.
7. Isn't an artificial tree better for the environment?
Artificial trees have an average life of 6 years. These trees are
made of non-biodegradeable materials that fill up our landfills
for decades to come and if burned may produce toxic fumes. Real
trees on the other hand are made by nature. Real trees are entirely
biodegradable and during their growing period in the fields at the
farm, will provide homes for birds, protection for small animals
and produce oxygen for the atmosphere. In addition, many municipalities
offer curbside pick up of trees after Christmas.
8. How many years does it take to grow a Christmas Tree?
Tree farms buy and plant each year seedlings that are 4 to 5 years
old. It will take another 7 to 8 years for these growing trees to
reach heights of 6 to 8 feet. Therefore, a tree ready to cut as
your Christmas Tree will be approximately 12 years old.
