A fresh-cut Christmas tree should last throughout the holiday season and into the new year if you follow these simple guidelines. First and foremost, select a good quality tree. It should have been recently cut, have a fresh scent and good color. One way to check for freshness is to bend some of the needles between your fingers. They should be supple and flexible without breaking. Two of the longest lasting varieties are Douglas Fir and Frasier Fir. Douglas Fir have soft branches and a dense, uniform shape whereas Frasier Fir have stiffer branches that will support heavier ornaments. They both have that wonderful fragrance of the great outdoors.
Once you have selected your tree, here's what you need to do. Be sure to put a fresh cut at the base of the tree. This will allow it to draw water up to maintain its freshness. As soon as possible, place your tree into a sturdy stand filled with water or in a bucket of water until you're ready to set it up. If you don't get the tree into water as soon as possible, the sap from the tree will seal the base and it will have to be re-cut. Let the tree stand in water for a day or two before you decorate it. This will allow the branches to fall back into their normal shape. The first several days the tree will drink a lot of water so be sure to check at least daily. It's best to display the tree in a cool place away from any heat sources.
Remember, part of the fun is picking out your tree. Whether short, tall, fat, skinny, full or sparse, there's a tree for everyone. So get out there and select that perfect tree. We have over 150 trees on display in five varieties.
Traditions and memories begin... right here at CHN!
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