Selections

SELECTING YOUR TREE

Keep these points in mind when choosing a specific tree:

Check the height of the ceiling in the room where you will display your tree. Select a tree that is at least one foot shorter than the ceiling height.
Run your fingers over the branch along the needles. Needles should be pliable and adhere to the branches. They should bend, but not break or fall off.
Make sure that the Christmas tree lot where you are buying your tree has their standing trees IN WATER. If the tree you buy has not been standing in a water bowl there is a good chance it is already dried out.
Shake or bounce the tree to be sure that the needles are firmly attached. If the tree is fresh, few needles should fall off. Some loss of needles inside the tree is common.
Avoid trees that have a wilted look.
Make sure that the trunk of the tree is straight. If the trunk is not straight, it will be difficult to stand the tree straight. The trunk must be six to eight inches long to allow placement in the tree stand.
Check for insects and dead needles inside the tree crown. Have dead needles shaken or blown out when you buy the tree.

CHRISTMAS TREE CARE

Make sure that someone at the tree lot cuts 1/2" off the butt before you take your tree home.
If you don’t plan to put the tree up right away (within 1-2 hours), cut an additional 1/2" off the butt and stand the tree in a bucket of water in a shady area until you are ready to stand the tree in the home.
When you bring the tree indoors, cut another 1/2" off the butt, place in a tree stand with a water bowl that holds at least one gallon of water.
DO NOT stand the tree near a fireplace, heater vents, sun facing windows or any other heat sources.
Always keep the tree well supplied with water. Check the water level in the stand at least two times per day. Trees may use several quarts of water a day.
NEVER let the water level fall below the base of the tree. If this occurs, the cut end can seal over, preventing further water intake.