Hi and welcome to Day 6 of my 12 Days Of Christmas series. There is no right or wrong type of tree to purchase, when it comes to choosing a Christmas tree. It really depends on what you like and what you can find. Having a fresh cut tree is so much better than an artificial tree, any day of the week. However, I understand the convenience of having an artificial tree.

Here are some of the most popular conifers grown for Christmas trees:

Douglas Firs- Have soft, flat, blue-green needles that are attached singly to the stem.

Frasier And Balsam Firs- Have soft, flat, dark green needles marked by silver bands on the undersides.

White and Scotch pines- Have needles bundled into groups of five (white pine) or two (Scotch pine).

Colorado Blue Spruce- Have sharp, square needles that are attached singly to the stem.

How To Select A Fresh Tree:

You can be assured of getting a fresh tree if you cut your own tree from a local Christmas tree farm. While this is a cherished family tradition for many, the convenience of purchasing a pre-cut tree is more attractive for others. To check a pre-cut tree for freshness, look for flexible needles that remain firmly attached when you tug on them. All needled evergreens shed their oldest needles every year, so do not be concerned when brown needles fall from the interior of the tree when you knock the base of the tree on the ground. Just make sure they are thoroughly shaken off the tree before taking it indoors. If the needles pull out easily, or if they appear a dull, lifeless green, that tree may be past its prime.

How To Maintain Freshness:

Maintaining a high moisture level in the tree is the single most important factor in reducing needle loss and keeping the tree fresh. This is accomplished primarily through the use of water-holding stands and keeping the water level in the stand above the base of the tree. Every year, there are many articles written concerning the handling and care of Christmas trees. Unfortunately, they often contain erroneous information.

How To Maintain Freshness And Aroma Of Your Live Tree:

(1). Use a tree stand with an adequate water holding capacity.

(2). Keep displayed trees away from sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, and direct sunlight).

(3). Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree.

(4). Monitor your tree for dryness.

What To Do With Your Tree After The Holidays:

When you are ready to take your tree down, don’t be in hurry to send it to a landfill. Evergreen boughs make a great mulch for perennial flowering plants that do not tolerate other mulches that can hold excessive moisture around their crowns. They can also be placed on the ground near bird feeders to create a little shelter for ground-feeding birds. Also, many communities have a special pick up or designate a drop off site for Christmas trees. They may hold a big community bonfire or grind the trees into mulch that can be used for the garden in spring.

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