How Do You Care For A Christmas Tree?
For those of us who choose to decorate our homes with a real Christmas tree, there are steps we can take to keep that tree green, healthy and safe through the holidays. If you love the characteristic aroma of an evergreen tree, here’s how to take care of its source. • Choose a healthy tree. If possible, buy a Christmas tree from a tree farm, where you can choose your tree while it’s still in the ground without removing a tree from a natural setting. A freshly cut Christmas tree will last longer than one that’s been cut weeks ago and shipped to distant retail outlets. No matter where you’re shopping, stay away from trees with a large number of dead or browning needles. Gently stroke a branch and make sure that the needles are flexible and remain on the tree. You can also lift the tree a few inches up and let it drop on the cut trunk, looking to make sure that outer green needles don’t fall off (a couple dried, inner needles are all right).[1] • Choose and clear a location for the tree.
