Christmas Tree Selection and Care

Christmas Tree Selection and Care

By Dr. Chris R. Robichaux
Iberia/ St. Martin Parish County Agent

Keep these points in mind when choosing a specific tree:

a) Run your fingers over the branch along the needles. Needles should be pliable and adhere to the branches. They should bend, but not break or fall off.

b) Shake or bounce the tree to be sure that the needles are firmly attached. If the tree is fresh, few needles should fall off. Some loss of needles inside the tree is common.

c) Avoid trees that have a wilted look.

d) Check for insects and dead needles inside the tree crown. Have dead needles shaken or blown out when you buy the tree.

Caring for the Tree In Your Home

a) When you bring the tree indoors, cut ½ to one inch off of the base of the trunk and place in a tree stand that holds at least one gallon of water.

b) Do not place the tree near a fireplace, heater vents or other heat sources.

c) Always keep the tree well supplied with water. Check the water level in the stand several times each day. Trees may use several quarts of water a day.

d) Never let the water level fall below the base of the tree. If this occurs, the cut end can seal over, preventing further water uptake. The tree must then be taken down and a fresh cut made to allow water uptake.

e) Adding aspirin, soda water, bleach or sugar to the water in the tree stand is no more effective in keeping the tree fresh than adding plain water each day.

Fireproofing Your Tree

a) The best way to keep a tree fresh and fire resistant is to keep it supplied with water at all times.

b) A fresh tree supplied with water presents little fire hazard. As long as the tree takes up water, it will be relatively fire resistant.

c) Trees can be sprayed with antitranspirants, which are clear films that slow water loss from the needles.

d) Use only Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved lights and nonflammable decorations.

e) Never leave home or go to bed with the Christmas tree lights on.

f) Be aware of aphids and other insects that can enter the home on the Christmas tree and emerge in the warm house.

g) Inspect the tree before bringing it indoors. Shake and bounce the tree on the pavement to dislodge insects and other foreign objects.###