Caring for your Tree

1. Choose a healthy tree.

No matter where you’re shopping, stay away from trees with a large number of dead or browning needles. Gently stroke a branch and make sure that the needles are flexible and remain on the tree. Lift the tree a few inches up and let it drop on the cut trunk, looking to make sure that outer green needles don’t fall off (a couple of dried, inner needles are okay).

6. Make sure the tree is straight.

It is a good idea for at least two people to put up the tree; one holding while the other fixes the base. Always stand back to check that the tree is straight before you get busy decorating. Obviously, it is easiest to fix at this stage.

2. Clear a location for the tree.

Obviously it should be kept away from open flames or heat sources, which may dry it out prematurely. Trees do burn so be careful. If using lights to decorate, you’ll need to be near an outlet or you’ll need an extension cord. If you use an extension cord, be sure it runs along a wall and doesn’t create a hazard. Corners are usually good locations, keeping the tree from getting knocked over.

7. Water the tree.

Make sure your tree gets lots of water especially in the first few hours of settling in (possibly a full gallon on the first day!). Thereafter you will need to add water almost every day. Not only is it good for the tree’s vitality, but a well-watered tree is also less dry and, therefore, less combustible. Make sure you never let the water level go below the base of the tree.

3. Cover the floor.

Use a tree skirt, paper or a piece of fabric for decoration AND to help protect the floor from water. Not only do skirts make the tree more presentable, they prevent pets from drinking water in the base!

8. Decorate.

For most, this is best part. It’s also a good time to think about tree safety. Check each string of lights to ensure that the bulbs are working properly. Inspect the cords to make sure they are not frayed, and that the connections are secure. Discard any that look questionable and replace them with new strings.

4. Prepare the base.

Using a small handsaw, cut about a half inch to an inch off the bottom to aid water absorption. Don’t cut the base at an angle or in a v-shape or drill a hole in the base, as it makes it more difficult to hold the tree in the stand.

9. Check for sap leakage.

It is a good idea to check occasionally for sap that has leaked from your tree onto nearby furnishings or floor coverings. The sooner you catch sap leakage, the easier it is to remove.

5. Mount your tree.

Within 8 hours of cutting the base, the tree should be mounted. A tree can only go this long without water before absorption is jeopardized. A Christmas tree should never be mounted dry. Place it in a container of water that is replenished on a regular basis. Give your tree 1 quart of water for every inch in trunk diameter. Don’t whittle down the bark just so that it can fit in the stand; the outer layer absorbs the most water.

10. Dispose of your tree as garden waste.

Your tree has given you its life and has provided great service in being part of your Christmas spirit! If your municipality has a tree collection recycle program, make use of this. If you have room in the garden, you can leave your tree there until spring, and then chip it into garden mulch.