If you prefer a fresh Christmas tree instead of an artificial one, there are certain steps that must be taken to ensure the tree stays fresh.
Here are the steps for how to care for a Christmas tree.
photo courtesy of Luke Jones flickr.com/photos/befuddledsenses/8236092149/Buy it Fresh
Make sure to purchase the freshest Christmas tree possible.
If you can cut your own Christmas tree, then you know it will definitely be fresh.
If you purchase your Christmas tree from a store or Christmas tree lot, inspect it to ensure it is fresh.
Pick a Good Spot
Place your Christmas tree in your home where it does not receive direct heat.
Stear clear of putting it near a fireplace, heater, or radiator.
The heat will dry it out and make it drop more needles.
Trim the Bottom
Just before you put your Christmas tree in the stand, cut about 1 inch off the bottom of the trunk to help it absorb water.
Make a straight cut, not a V or diagonal cut.
If you wish, keep the cutting and write the date to use as a Christmas ornament or drink coaster.
Do not trim down the outside of the trunk to make it fit in the tree stand since most of the water is absorbed through the outer portion of the trunk.
Keep it Watered
Christmas trees absorb a lot of water.
If your tree dries out, it should be cut again (which is a huge hassle if the tree is already decorated).
Your tree should have at least 1 quart of water per inch of tree trunk diameter.
If your Christmas tree trunk is a 4" diameter, you should have a minimum of 4 quarts of water.
Add water to your Christmas tree the morning and evening of the first day, then add water once daily.
A newly cut Christmas tree may absorb 1 gallon of water in the first 24 hours.
You do not need any water additive, just use plain cool or warm water (not hot water).
Recycle
Once your Christmas tree dries out or the Christmas season is over, research places to recycle your Christmas tree.
Ensure that all decorations are removed prior to recycling your tree.
