Choosing and decorating the Christmas tree is a tradition that has been passed through the generations. The selection and quality of artificial trees has come a long way but for many of us there is no tree that can take the place of a fresh-cut Christmas tree.
Picking out the Christmas tree is fun family event but before you go out to choose the tree take a few minutes to decide where the tree will be placed in the home and then get the measurements. Ideally you don't want to place the tree near any heat sources, such as fireplaces or heat registers, and you also want to stay away from those high traffic areas where the tree could be knocked over.
Now that you have found the right location, take out the tape measure and measure the width and height of the location, keeping in mind the size of the tree topper and the tree stand. You also want to take measurements of the tree stand, making sure that the base of the tree will fit into the stand. The best tree stand should hold four litres of water.
When looking for a tree you want to choose a fresh tree that will last through the season. You also want to find a tree with a good uniform shape and sturdy branches - strong enough to hold tree ornaments. So you can get a good look at it, the tree should be displayed, unwrapped and untied in an area where the temperature does not go below -5 C. The tree should smell and look fresh. Touch the tree to see if it feels moist and the needles are flexible, and when you run your fingers down the branch, the needles should remain on the branch. Next, check the tree for needle-drop. Pick the tree up off the ground 20 to 30 centimetres and give it a good thump. There should be very little to no needles that fall off the tree. If there is, then choose another tree.
When you have picked out the right tree, it can be wrapped to make it easier to transport home. Never place the tree on the outside of any vehicle if the temperatures are below freezing. This will cause the tree to freeze and then when it is brought indoors the needles will drop. Transport the tree in a heated vehicle. This should also be kept in mind if you don't plan on bringing the tree indoors immediately. Store the tree in a heated garage or shed, where temperature does not go below -5 C.
It is very important to always re-cut the bottom of the tree to re-open the circulatory system, allowing it take up the water - just like you would do when arranging fresh-cut flowers or greens. Using a saw or power saw, cut a 2-3cm slice from the bottom of the trunk. This can also be done at the garden centre if you plan to put it in water within the next few hours. An added step that will help make the tree last longer is to place the trunk of the tree in the following solution over night.
Solution: In the order given, put 1 gallon warm water in a pail, add 2 cups corn syrup, 4 tablespoons micronized iron or iron chelate (available at the garden centre) and 4 teaspoons bleach.
The next morning, take the tree out of the solution and place it in a clean tree stand. (For easy clean-up, hide a plastic tree bag under the stand and tree skirt so that after the tree is undecorated, all you need to do is pull the bag up around the tree and transport it outside. All the fallen needles will remain in the bag.) Fill the stand with water and check to see if it is taking up water. If it is not taking water after a few hours, re-cut the bottom of the trunk. When you are sure it is taking up water, it's time to decorate.
Keep the tree well watered by checking it daily. Trees can take one to two litres of water every day. If the water level in the stand falls below the cut end of the trunk, a scab will form on the trunk, preventing it from taking up water. If this happens the tree trunk will have to be re-cut, which can be a huge chore when the tree is decorated.
Choosing a fresh tree and keeping it maintained will mean that you will be able to enjoy the tree throughout the Christmas season.
