It is that most wonderful time of the year—the holiday season. And with the holiday season coming upon us, we are in search of that most perfect Christmas tree. One that stands tall and festive, to be adorned with lights and ornaments, shining brightly in our home, the centerpiece of celebrations.
This column will help you pick out and maintain that perfect and healthy tree—one that stays strong, green and full throughout the holiday season and even a bit longer.
Start with a fresh tree
The fresher the tree, the longer the tree will last. If you are getting your tree from a choose-and-cut farm, you’ll know just how fresh it is because you’re the one doing the cutting. If you are picking up a pre-cut tree, first test for needle retention by grasping the branch and pulling down gently. The branch should feel supple in your hand, and if brown needles and a few green needles come off, that’s ok, your tree is fresh. If lots of green needles come off, you’ll want to look for a different tree.
Get a fresh cut
For a fresh Christmas tree to last through the season, water uptake is critical. For your tree to drink water, you’ll need to cut about an inch off the base of the trunk, removing the portion that has been sealed over with resin. (Christmas trees are conifers, meaning they produce resin, or sap, which seals off the trunk after it’s been cut.) All pre-cut retailers should provide this service for you, so don’t forget to ask.
Water immediately
Natural trees need plenty of water to stay fresh. Once you get your tree home, be sure to get your tree into water as soon as possible. If you don’t have your stand handy yet, place the tree in a bucket or tub of water until you’re ready to get that tree up. Good old tap water is your best bet for keeping your tree fresh. Additives like sugar, aspirin, corn syrup, or bleach should not be put into the tree’s water.
Know your stand
Not all stands are created equal. Did you know a tree can drink about a quart of water per inch of trunk diameter? Make sure your stand reservoir has enough capacity for your tree—at least 1 to 1 ½ gallons. It’s not a bad idea to scale up on size if you’re unsure. Keep your tree baled until it’s situated in the stand, and water the tree before you unbale it.
Check your surroundings
Heat tends to dry trees out more quickly, so find a spot that’s not too close to a heat source like a radiator or baseboard or forced air vents—and never put your tree near a fireplace, wood stove or space heaters. When possible, avoid windows with southern exposure since they have the strongest sunlight. Check the outlet closest to the tree to make sure it’s functioning properly before adding any decorations. Check your lights to make sure there are no defects or frayed wires on your lights or extension cords. Never leave your Christmas tree lights on when you’re not home or when you’re going to bed. Timers are a great way to remember to turn your lights on and off each day.
Water often, water daily
Water is essential to helping your tree stay fresh longer. Check your stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree. In the first few days, check your stand several times a day, as your tree may be drinking lots of water to get rehydrated. Perhaps assign the job to one person in your home at a set time each day.
And then it’s over…
Use a ladle or turkey baster to get the water out of the stand before removing the tree from the house. Thoroughly clean your stand before you store it for next year. You may be able to recycle your tree by contacting your local farms; goats enjoy recycled evergreen trees.
Good luck, and happy hunting for that perfect tree. Enjoy all your holiday festivities and best wishes to you and your family.