It’s an outing like no other — trudging through the tree lot in search of the perfect Christmas tree. Some people take their annual Christmas tree search very seriously; even claiming that the right tree calls out to them. Whether you scrutinize every tree on the lot or grab the first one that looks good, one thing is certain — you want one that looks good and will stay fresh all season long. Keeps this year’s holiday tree looking great until the first of the year with these simple care tips.
Buy Fresh
Not every fresh-cut tee is, well, fresh. Some lots are filled with trees that were cut weeks and weeks ago and then shipped far and wide. Unfortunately, some of these trees dry and wither long before Christmas. At Meyers Green Services, we know how to raise and cut trees that will last. When you choose one of our trees you know it’s fresh and will make it to Christmas morning.
Get it Home Safely
It’s the sight of the season — cars racing down the highway with fresh cut Christmas trees tied to the tops of their roofs. But did you know that the wind whisking past can dry out your tree? Be sure to protect it by having it wrapped (or cover it with a trap).
Store it Properly
Not ready to set up your new tree right away? Be sure to store it in a bucket of water in a cool and shady spot.
Find the Perfect Spot for Display
Location, location, location isn’t just about real estate. Finding the right spot for your Christmas tree is important. Sure, you may want it to sit in your front picture window. But if that means it will be in contact with the direct sun all day long, you may want to rethink where you display it. Sunlight can dry out a tree quicker than it should, and so can fluctuating temperatures. To keep your Christmas tree looking fresher longer, find a place that is temperature controlled! Keep your tree away from cool drafts found around doors and windows as well as heating vents.
Recut the Stem
Unless you cut down your tree and get it in water within a few hours, you will want to cut about ¼ inch off of the stem to help it absorb the most water. Sap can quickly seal off a tree’s vascular system, which will prevent it from getting the hydration it needs.
Warning: making an angular cut can keep your tree from drinking! Straight cuts are best!
Get it in Water – Now!
You couldn’t live long without water and neither can your tree. Be sure to get it in a bucket of water as soon as you bring it home and once the tree is in its stand, keep the water coming. Most trees will drink about a gallon of water in the first 24 hours and one to three quarts a day after that. Never let the tree stand goes dry. Refresh its water supply every morning and evening.
So what kind of water is best? Most experts agree that cold plain water is fine. Don’t put in any additives — they can keep the tree from absorbing enough. Plus, it’s a safety issue; if you have children or pets, those additives can be dangerous! Oh, and don’t worry about the water’s temperature. There is no evidence to show that warm water is more easily absorbed.
There’s nothing like the look and smell of a live Christmas tree. At Meyers Green Services, we specialize in providing our customers with the freshest and most beautiful trees of the seasons. Stop by our lot to find one for your family.