For many families, acquiring a Christmas tree is an annual tradition that marks the official beginning of the holiday season. As we enter this season, I wanted to take the opportunity to remind everyone that nearby we have three Christmas tree farms in which your family can purchase locally grown Christmas trees.
Many retail lots sell pre-cut trees and offer convenience to busy consumers and present a variety of tree species. These lots are especially popular with people who have limited time to shop for a tree or if the weather is not conducive to outdoor activities.
Regardless of origin, all pre-cut trees should be inspected for freshness. Another option for consumers is the purchase a living, balled and burlapped Christmas tree that can be used as a landscape plant after Christmas.
Tips for selecting and caring for your fresh Christmas tree:
Determine where you want to display your tree. Measure your space and the trees you are considering. Most standard rooms can hold a seven-foot tree.
Needles should be flexible on pre-cut trees. Grasp a branch between your thumb and forefinger, about six inches from its tip. Pull your hands toward you, allowing the branch to slip though your fingers. The needles should adhere to the branch, not fall off in your hand.
Lift the tree a few inches off the ground and bring it down abruptly on the stump. Outside green needles should not fall off in substantial numbers. The tree you select should have a forest fragrance and a rich green color.
Once home, make a fresh cut across the base of the trunk about 1 inch above the old base. Immediately place the tree in a water-holding stand.
Depending on the size, species and where the tree is located, it can absorb a gallon of water a day. Just good ol’ tap water is fine.
Keep your tree away from the fireplace, heater and television. A well-watered Christmas tree does not represent a fire hazard. However, a dried-out tree does.
Always unplug lights when you are away from home or before you go to bed. Be sure light cords are in good working order.
Living Christmas trees will require a bit of special care to ensure survival after Christmas. The root ball should be placed in a bucket or large pan to accommodate its transfer to an indoor environment. As with a cut tree, water is imperative to survival.
Living Christmas trees should not be kept in the house for more than 10 days before planting.
Nick Kuhn is urban forester for the city of McMinnville. He can be reached at 474-TREE.
