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Whether it's cut fresh or selected from a tree lot, choosing just the right Christmas tree is an important holiday decision. Some prefer the Scotch pine because of the excellent needle retention. It's the most widely planted tree for decorating in Minnesota.
The Colorado Blue Spruce has a pretty bluish-green color and sharp needles. The pines -- Norway, Red, and White have long soft needles and are a bit trickier to decorate. The Balsam Fir is very fragrant and has great needle retention. The premium tree in Minnesota is the Frasier Fir; it is fragrant but not native to Minnesota.
Whatever tree you choose; make sure it is a fresh one, nothing is fresher than cutting your own, of course. Bend the needles; if they snap, pass on purchasing that tree as it is old. Fresh needles are pliable. If the tree is pre-cut, lift it up and set it down on the stem. Was there a shower of loose needles or did the tree feel too light for it's length indicating low moisture content? Keep looking for the perfectly formed, fresh, fragrant, and needle retentive tree.
After making the big decision, make a fresh cut and remove a few inches off the trunk of the tree. You may also remove some bottom boughs that you can use for decoration or making a wreath. Immediately place it in a bucket of water or a clean tree stand. Be sure the tree stand is sturdy and will keep the tree erect. Check the water level frequently to prevent dehydration. A tree can consume a large amount of water and you don't want it to go dry. Before adding all those sparkly twinkle lights, plug them in to be sure they are in working condition and replace any burnt out bulbs to save you time and trouble later. Be sure to check the tree from time to time to be sure the needles are still pliable as you don't want to end the holiday early with a fire.
Some people use a variety of things in the water to help the tree remain healthy. There are commercial products to be added to the water, some people add sugar, some even add some aspirins. I have seen no evidence that any of these additional items add to the life of the tree but if you have a family tradition of throwing something in the water you probably will anyway.
Disposing of Your Retired
Christmas Tree |
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