Keep Your Tree Looking Its Best This Holiday Season
The holidays are right around the corner, which means it’s time to pick out the perfect tree for your home! We all know the toughest part about having a live tree in your house is having to clean up the needles that have fallen all over your floor. We’ve provided some helpful tips so you can find the best tree and keep it looking, and smelling, wonderful all holiday season.
Before You Pick Out Your Tree
- Your tree should be placed in a spot that is not too close to a heater, fireplace, or vent, as the extra heat will quickly cause your tree to dry out, its beautiful green color to fade, and needles to fall.
- Make sure to locate the best spot where there is a small chance of it being bumped or knocked over, for the safety of your family and guests, as well as your tree.
- Pick out a tree stand that is sturdy, fits the size of your tree, and has plenty of room for water to keep your tree happy and healthy.
Picking The Right Tree
Checking the trunk:
- Step back 5-8 feet from the tree and walk around it. Make sure the trunk is not visible through the pine needles from any angle. The fuller your tree branches are, the better chance it has to last throughout the holiday season.
- Check that the trunk has a slight stickiness to it. This means that the tree is still alive and gathering water. If the trunk is peeling or too dry you will want to look for another tree.
Checking the needles:
- As a rule of thumb, shiny and green needles mean a fresh tree. Dry and brown needles mean the tree is already too old or dry.
- A good test for the health of the needles is to grab one of the branches between your thumb and your forefinger. Draw your hand towards the end of the branch and watch the reaction of the needles. If the tree is healthy and fresh, the needles should bounce back and remain on the branch. If the needles fall off in your hand, this is an indication that the tree may be too old and will not last through the season.
Bringing Your Tree Home
- Cut about half an inch off the bottom of the trunk. This will help it absorb more water, allowing the tree to keep its color and hold its needles.
- Keep your tree’s water always filled. Lukewarm or room temperature water is the best to allow your tree to soak up as much water as it needs. Watering your tree consistently is important to make sure the stump of the tree does not die. During the first week you may need to water your tree two to three times a day as trees can soak up a gallon or more of water very quickly. After the first week you should be okay to check the water about once a day.
Recycling Your Tree
Find the nearest opportunity to recycle your tree here.