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It is time once again to begin the decoration season. If you are choosing a fresh Christmas tree, and want it to last for a significant amount of time, there are thing you can do to ensure that it will last through the season.
When shopping for your tree . . .
When shopping for the perfect tree, keep in mind that firs and pines, generally, hold their needles better than spruce. Perform a simple freshness test by gently tugging on the needles. If they fall out, choose another tree. The needles should be flexible, moist and fragrant if broken. If you are buying directly from a tree farm, more than likely, they will have a shake machine. Ask them to shake your chosen tree. This will rid the tree of loose needles that drop naturally as the tree grows, thereby helping to reduce the mess in your home. Then, perform a drop test. Lift the three about 10-12” off the ground and let it fall straight down on the trunk. If you notice a substantial amount of needles fall, again, choose another tree.
When you get home . . .
When you get home, make a fresh cut on the trunk. This will remove built up resin that would impede water uptake. Immediately place the tree into a pail of clean water and place in a cold shaded area until you are ready to bring it in and decorate it. If it is stored like this for more than a day, it would be best to make another fresh cut.
Bringing your tree inside . . .
Once inside, situate your tree away from heating vents and fireplaces. Keep it well watered. Check it twice daily, especially if your water reservoir is small. A properly sized stand should supply a quart of water PER INCH of trunk diameter. Depending on the size and species of your tree, it may take up between a quart and a gallon of water per day.
Using preservatives . . .
Don’t bother with preservatives. They aren’t as reliable as they are marketed to be. Instead, make sure to maintain a water level that will not permit air to reach your cut. It only takes about six to twelve hours of exposure for the trunk to dry out, preventing the uptake of water.
After the holidays are over . . .
When the season is over, think twice before hauling it to the curb. It can still serve a useful purpose in the garden. Decorate it with pine cones smeared with peanut butter and bird seed, and put it outside for wild birds to enjoy. They’ll love the treat and find it perfect for cover.
You might also consider cutting off the branches and using them for mulch to provide some protection to marginally hardy plants. They can also be used to protect plants and shrubs from windburn. Dry out the trunk and use it for backyard campfires next season. The branches, used for mulch over winter, make perfect kindling, too.
Gail Nampel
Certified Master Gardener
