Things You'll Need:
- Tree
- Tree stand
- Sharp saw
- Water
- Bucket
- Removal bag
-
Step 1
Select the perfect tree for your family. A balsam fir is the most common but the noble fir or grand fir have the best needle retention. If cut fresh, these trees can last three or four weeks when properly maintained. Wherever you go for your tree, look for a healthy green appearance with very few browning needles. Pick the tree up and drop it on the butt end to see if any needles fall off.
-
Step 2
Cut off about an inch of the trunk and place the tree in a bucket of warm water. Store the tree in an cool unheated garage or some other area out of the wind and freezing temperatures.
-
Step 3
Decide where in the house you want to put your lovely tree. Pick a place that is away from heat vents, radiators or fireplaces. Keep it away from south or west-facing windows too.
-
Step 4
Hose the tree off before you bring it indoors. This will remove any harmful pesticides or other chemicals as well as freshen it up.
-
Step 5
Bring the tree indoors when you are ready to decorate it. Make another fresh 1-inch cut off the trunk before placing it in a sturdy tree stand that holds a least 1 gallon of water or roughly 1/4 of water for every inch of diameter of the trunk.
-
Step 6
Water your tree well. An average Christmas tree will need between 2 and 6 liters of water per day. If it drys out, the trunk will seal itself and shrink and this prevents the smooth flow of water up the tree. Some people will swear by things added to the water like aspirin, sugar or even vodka, but simple water and lots of it is best.
-
Step 7
Decorate with LEDS or mini lights because they put off less heat which reduces needle drop and even saves on your electric bill. Run your extension cord around the base of the wall--not under rugs or carpeting.
-
Step 8
Pull up your tree removal bag from the base after Christmas and your clean up will be swift and easy without the mess of pine needles in your carpet.
