For a fresh, fragrant Christmas Tree:
Treat your tree as carefully as you would treat
a bouquet of freshly-cut flowers!
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Make a Fresh Cut
- Make a fresh cut on the butt to open up the pores which have been clogged by sap. Cut off at least one-half inch. The fresh-cut surface should be creamy-white, not yellow or brown. If you do not make a fresh cut, the tree will not be able to drink water.
- After the cut is made, put the tree in water as soon as possible. The longer the time between when the tree is given a fresh cut and when it is put into water, the less ability the tree has to absorb water.
- Even if a hole is drilled to accommodate a pin-type stand, a fresh cut also should be made on the butt.
Put in Water
- Check stands for leaks.
- Rinse water reservoir of the tree stand with a mixture of one capful of bleach and one cup of water before inserting the tree. This reduces the growth of micro-organisms that can block the tree’s ability to absorb water. Great care should be taken to avoid spilling or splashing the bleach on carpeting, etc.
- Place the tree in a sturdy stand which will hold at least one gallon of water. Fill with plain water. To view the innovative Davis Christmas Tree Stand, click here!
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Water Daily
- An average tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.
- If the water level drops below the cut end of the tree, a seal will form and no more water will be absorbed by the tree unless another fresh cut is made. So don’t forget to add water every day.
Mini-Lights Produce Minimum Heat
- Miniature lights produce much less heat and reduce the drying effect upon a tree.
- Always check light sets for frayed or cracked wire insulation and broken sockets before placing them on a tree.
- Always turn off the lights of your tree when leaving the house or retiring for the night.
- Never use lighted candles.
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Keep Away from Heat Sources
- Place the tree away from heat sources such as heating vents, fireplaces, wood stoves and fireplace inserts, radiators, television sets or sunny windows.
- Be careful not to block a door with the Christmas tree or rearranged furniture.
- After Christmas, before the tree dries, remove it from the house for recycling or pick up by your disposal service.
- Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a wood stove or fireplace.
- Check for your local chipping and composting program with the parks and recreation department, local nursery or service organization for recycling opportunities. Also, visit www.earth911.com.
Enjoy your tree!
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