Picking out a live Christmas tree is one of my favorite holiday memories. When I was growing up in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, my parents made it a tradition to venture to the local tree lot to pick out the perfect tree. One year, we made the Fond du Lac Reporter newspaper cover!
Maybe picking out a live tree is one of your favorite holiday memories and one of your favorite traditions today. Or perhaps you’ve never purchased a real tree before, but you’d like to start making it a tradition. While enjoyable, the experience can be overwhelming and frustrating, so if it’s all new to you, here are some things to consider before picking out that perfect tree at a lot or tree farm.
1. Tree placement: Before leaving your home, you should know where you’ll display your tree. Living room or family room? Corner or freestanding? Whatever you decide, please keep it away from heat sources like furnace vents, fireplaces, and heaters.
2. Measurements: After you decide where you’re putting it, take measurements. Measure the distance across the space so you know how big the tree’s circumference can be. You should also measure the distance from the stand to the ceiling. Cutting off the tip of your Christmas tree before you can set it up isn’t a good way to start. Trust me.
3. Type of Tree: Most tree lots and farms offer a variety of Christmas trees. Do your research beforehand to determine which tree is best for you and your family. Click here for more information on the different types of evergreen trees.
It’s also a good idea to take your time and look at all the trees before making your final decision.
4. Freshness: A freshly cut tree will last longer than a tree from a tree lot, so visit a tree farm if you can. To find a tree farm near you, click here.
If you select a tree from a tree lot, make sure the tree has healthy green needles. Rub your hand along the branch. If the needles fall off, move on to the next tree.
5. Tree care: You now have a live tree in your home and must take care of it. It’s not hard to do. Just follow these guidelines.
- If you live in a colder climate, leave your tree in the garage or basement for a day before you move it into the house. This will help the tree adjust to the warmer temperature. A tree that goes from a cold to a heated environment too quickly can stress the tree.
- Using a small handsaw, re-cut the tree approximately ¼ of an inch to an inch above the base so water can be absorbed quickly and easily. Put the tree in a water-filled stand immediately after its cut.
- Check the tree stand daily to ensure the water level is high enough. A well-watered tree won’t dry out as quickly and turn into a potential fire hazard.
I hope picking out your live tree is a memorable adventure, but not quite the same as the Griswold’s!
“Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree. How lovely are your branches!” Here’s hoping your Christmas tree branches are lovely throughout this holiday season!
Do you have any Christmas tree traditions or safety tips you’d like to share? I’d love to hear from you. Please share them in the box below.
