Christmas Tree Selection And Care
by Dr. Robert Black, Consumer Horticultural Specialist

The tradition of decorating a tree for Christmas originated in Germany several hundred years ago and was brought to this country by German settlers during the last century. Today the Christmas tree is one of the most beautiful symbols of Christmas and a great favorite with both adults and children . To ensure its beauty this Christmas, take extra care in selecting, preparing and decorating your tree.

It is important to choose a fresh tree and to keep it as fresh as possible so that your tree will last through the holiday season. Select a tree with good needle holding ability. Scotch and white pine and Douglas and Balsam fir have naturally good needle-holding qualities, while spruce trees tend to lose needles quickly.

Freshly cut trees hold their needles better and are more resistant to ignition. Bend the needles to determine the tree's freshness. They should be supple and springy to the touch. Bounce the butt of the tree on the ground to see if any needles drop. If more than a few needles drop, the tree is not fresh. The sap on the tree stump should be sticky and moist, not hard or caked. Also choose a tree with an attractive color and a full, bushy appearance. Most people prefer a conical, symmetrical shape to their tree. The branches should be sturdy enough to hold ornaments and other decorations such as small gifts.

An alternative to the cut tree is a live tree that can be obtained at nurseries and tree farms. After the holiday season is over the containerized tree can be planted in your yard.

Your cut tree should be stood up in a large bucket of water in a shady and cool place as soon as you bring it home. If the tree must lean against a wall, make sure that you turn it daily to avoid disrupting the shape of the tree.

Make sure your tree is not located near a fireplace, television set, candles, or other source of heat. Place your tree away from household traffic patterns so that there will be no possibility of the tree being knocked over accidentally.

When decorating your tree, make sure all lighting equipment is in good condition and used in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. Always unplug the lights when leaving the room.

When cared for properly, your Christmas tree should be a source of pleasure throughout the holiday season.