A few simple care tips will keep your Christmas tree fresh and fragrant throughout the holiday season.
For the freshest tree possible, consider going to a tree farm to pick and cut your own "Texas Grown." If buying a precut tree, buy early for the best selection and to ensure it receives proper care.
Before leaving home, measure the height and width of the spot where the tree will be placed. When selecting a cut tree, look for one with a healthy deep green color. Check for needles that are flexible, not brittle. Bump the trunk on the ground. It's normal for some needles to fall but if they're still dropping heavily after two or three bumps, the tree is too dry.
When you bring the tree home, cut 1 or 2 inches off the base of the trunk. Stand the tree in a pail of water until you're ready to decorate.
Locate your tree away from any heat source that can cause premature drying. Place the tree in a stand that holds at least one quart of water - one gallon stands are even better. Remember, trees are very thirsty. Check the stand daily and add water as needed.
Robin Wright-Brumbelow, Smith County Master Gardener
Here are a few tips to remember when selecting and caring for your tree:
Check for freshness. Needles should spring back when bent. Falling or brittle needles indicate dryness.
After arriving home with vour tree, saw one to two inches off the base to encourage better water absorption. Place the trunk in a bucket of water for a day or two before bringing the tree inside. Keep the tree in a cool, shaded area.
Remove dry interior needles by tapping the tree on the driveway a few times.
Place the tree in a water-holding stand, and monitor the water level daily.
Locate the tree away from heat sources to prevent drying the needles.
Decorate with small lights, which give off little heat; or use a spotlight to showcase your collection of beautiful baubles.
Nita Wood, Smith County Master Gardener
Here are a few tips to remember when selecting and caring for your tree.
Check for freshness. Needles should spring back when bent. Falling or brittle needles indicate dryness.
After arriving home with vour tree, saw one to two inches Off the base to encourage better water absorption. Place the trunk in a bucket of water for a day or two before bringing the tree inside. Keep the tree in a cool, shaded area.
Remove dry interior needles by tapping the tree on the drive way a few times.
Place the tree in a water-holding stand, and monitor the water level daily.
Place the tree away from heat sources to prevent drying the needles.
Decorate with small lights, which give off little heat; or use a spotlight to showcase your collection of beautiful baubles.
Nita Wood, Smith County Master Gardener
Trees & Shrubs Index
Gardening Tips For Northeast Texas Index
East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Home Page