Live Christmas Tree Care Tips

[Michael]

Here are some simple tips for buying, storing, setting up, and caring for a live Christmas tree.

Selecting the right tree:
Size - Be sure not to get too large of a tree. When selecting a tree, especially ones still growing in a field, it is too easy to get a tree that is much too large for your living room. Your best bet is to measure how much space you have in your home and then bring a tape measure along with you when you go to get your tree. Don't forget to factor in the height of your tree stand when choosing a tree.

Health - To check the health of the tree just grasp a branch between your thumb and forefinger and pull. If a lot of needles fall off into your hand then it's best to move on. If few needles come off then the tree is fresh

Trunk - It is very important to check the trunk of the tree for two things. First you want to be sure that it is straight so the tree will stand properly when you get it home. Also you want to make sure that the trunk isn't too wide to fit into the opening on your tree stand.

Getting it home:
Protection - It is best to protect both the tree (from wind damage) and your car (from scratches) by wrapping the tree in a blanket or tarp before tying it to the roof of the car. The last thing you want to is to get home and find that your beautiful tree is now just a pile of needle-less branches.

Tying It Down - The only things you really need to know about tying the tree to your car roof is to tie it securely and face the bottom of the tree forward. Facing the bottom of the tree forward protects the needles from wind damage, especially if it is left uncovered for the ride home and tying it down securing will, well, keep it from blowing off your car...LOL Personally I'd suggest just letting the pros tie it to your car if available. Most Christmas tree lots and farms have people available for just that reason and they do it for free.

Storage:
Before Setup- If you aren't going to bring the tree immediately inside then it is advised that you cut a 1/2" off the bottom of the tree and stand it up in a bucket of water or the tree stand you plan on using. Its best to keep the tree in a shady enclosed area such as a garage or basement and to keep it out of the direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.

Set up:
Trunk Trimming - Before placing your tree in the stand it is imperative that you cut a 1/2" to 1" off the bottom of the trunk. Failure to do so will result in the tree being unable to "drink" water and will result in the eventual drying out of the tree.

Tree Stand Water - According to the National Christmas Tree Assocation a general rule of thumb is to use a tree stand that can hold at least 1 quart of water per inch diameter of the trunk. The reasoning behind that is that fresh cut trees can use about that much water in a 24 hours period.

Tree Stand Size - Always use a tree stand that is large enough for the tree you have. Not only will a small stand not hold enough water for a large tree, but it also is more likely to fall over and possibly cause injury. When shopping for a tree stand remember that it is better to have too large of a stand than too small of one.

Care and Safety:
Watering - Be sure to keep water in your tree stand at all times. If you cannot check the water on a daily basis it is advised you get one of various devices available for maintaining the water level over a longer period of time. Also beware of cats and dogs which may drink the water at night. If the stand goes completely dry at any time it can result in the tree being limited to how much water it can "drink" in the future.

Keep Away! - Keep your tree as far away from heat as possible. A dry tree is a dangerous tree, so anything you can do to keep it away from hot air ducts, radiators, fireplaces, and other heat sources will not only help it live longer but will also make things safer for all.

-Only use UL approved lights, and extension cords on the tree. Also check all light strands, especially old sets, for frayed wires, and broken bulbs.

-Never leave your tree lights on overnight or when not at home.

-Never place candles or other open flames on or near your tree.

[Bob]

Great information Mike! safety is the most important thing when dealing with live trees! Thanks!!

[Jinglebelle]

I'm begging for a live tree this year, LOL! My hubby is a bug-o-phobe, and swears the house will become infested with some kind of tree bugs or something, LOL!!!

What a great article, thanks for posting...