The Best Way to Keep a Christmas Tree Fresh
The Christmas tree is the centerpiece of holiday decorating. The proper tree fills a home with the fresh aroma of pine, while displaying both ornaments and gifts for all to see. The short life span of a live tree has led to an increasing number of households purchasing artificial trees to put on display instead. However, with proper care you can prolong the life of a live tree. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose and cut down your own Christmas tree. Select a tree from a farm that does not cut down the tree until you purchase it. This guarantees freshness.
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Protect your tree on the trip home by wrapping it in a plastic tarp that is large enough to cover the tree from top to bottom. This simple precaution protects the tree from unnecessary damage that can decrease life span. It is ideal to bring your tree home in the bed of a truck. If you need to tie the tree to the top of a car, tightly wrap rope around the tree to secure against the vehicle roof.
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Place the tree in a Christmas tree stand filled with 1 gallon of plain tap water. Never allow the tree base to dry. Check the water level daily and top off as necessary.
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Shelter your tree from the elements. Keeping your tree away from direct sunlight, air conditioners, heaters and fans safeguards against it prematurely drying out.
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Tips & Warnings
If you purchase a pre-cut tree, cut 1 1/2 to 2 inches off of the bottom before placing it in a stand. This allows the tree to properly absorb water and remain hydrated.
References
- Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
