Caring for a Live Christmas Tree

Few things take the place of a fresh evergreen tree at the holidays, but caring for a live Christmas tree can be a daunting task. However, it need not be, as there are ways to make this charming tradition last throughout the season.

For the freshest specimen, it's best to cut it yourself at a local tree farm. It can be a family event to pick out just the right pine, spruce or fir for your home. A fresh cut Christmas tree will last the longest and require the least amount of care.

If cutting it yourself is not a possibility, check with local nurseries and tree lots to determine their delivery dates. Select yours right after delivery; the closer to Christmas the better. Feel the tree to make sure that it feels moist and the branches still have flexibility. You should avoid those that have a great deal of brown needles or which have needles falling whenever you touch it. Some needle loss is expected, but if a shower falls every time you touch it, pick another one.

Once you made your selection, it's important to get it in water as soon as possible. Pre-cut ones need a fresh cut of about one-half inch in order to absorb water. Place the tree in a bucket of water until it is ready to be placed in the stand. It will drink the most for about six-to-eight hours after it is cut, so be sure it has plenty of water. It may drink up to a full gallon of water during this time.

Once you are ready to put the tree in its stand, be sure that it is not too close to a heat source or fireplace. The heat will dry out the tree, and a spark from a fireplace could ignite decorations or wrapping paper. Place a plastic tree bag or garbage bag underneath the tree to protect the floor from water spillage.

Don't whittle the bark down if you are having trouble fitting it into the stand. The outer layer of bark absorbs much of the water. Instead opt for a new stand. Don't use a tree that has a wooden cross stake nailed to the bottom as a stand. In this situation, there is no way to water the tree, and it will die quickly.

Be sure the stand has fresh water in it daily. Do not let the fluid line fall below the cut; the tree can't drink and will seal itself. Water temperature does not matter; volume does.

• Most experts agree that various additives, such as aspirin, ginger ale or sugar, do not help preserve the tree. These additions do not hurt it, so use them if you like, but plain water is best.
• Fireplace heat and radiators can dry it out. Cooler room temperatures, however, cause less stress and the tree will require less water. Similarly, lights such as LEDs or miniatures, burn cooler than standard Christmas lights.
• Never leave Christmas lights on while you are away or sleeping. The tree itself won't heat up or spark a fire, but a short in the electrical system or in the lights could ignite wrapping paper and decorations.
• When the time comes, consider recycling your Christmas tree at a recycling program.

Caring for a live Christmas tree requires a few simple steps, but it is worthwhile. The aroma of the evergreen adds a charming fragrance to a holiday home. The beauty of the tree makes for festive Christmas memories.

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