Freshly cut local Christmas trees have needles that are full of water and will resist burning.
If you want to be sure your tree is not a fire hazard, it is imperative that your tree is fresh. Cutting your own tree is becoming a very popular family tradition; it is also the best alternative to ensure your tree is fresh. However, if you cannot cut your own, the next best thing is to select a local pre-cut tree as soon as they are available.
Choosing your tree
Everyone has their favorite; eastern white pine, Norway spruce, Colorado Blue spruce, Frazier fir, eastern red cedar are just a few popular selections.
To be sure the tree best fits your needs, it is better to visit a sales yard during the day when you can see the tree under daylight conditions.
Look for a tree with few dead or browning needles and avoid trees with a wilting look. As I mentioned, it is the tree’s freshness that is most important.
There are some things you can do to be sure you have a fresh tree. Gently grasp a branch with your fingers and pull towards you; very few needles should come off in your hand. If needles look a little whitish or shrunken, chances are the tree has begun to dry out.
Test the tree by giving it a slight shake. A few falling brown needles are not uncommon; however, falling green needles means the tree is dry. Look at the trunk.
If there are visible signs of splits in the trunk, the tree may have dried up to the point that it will not be able to take on water. The base of the trunk should be straight and 6 to 8 inches long to allow placement into a tree stand.
Taking care of your tree
To keep your tree fresh as well as fire resistant throughout the holiday season, it is important to take care of it. Fresh cut trees need a constant supply of water (more than a quart a day for most species). Once the tree is home, cut a ½- inch disk from the base. This new cut is important because it allows the tree to absorb water.
You can place the tree in a bucket of tepid water first to let it hydrate for a few hours before placing in the tree stand. The water level should never go below the base of the tree. Check your water level daily and add fresh water when needed. Plain tap water is best; you do not need to add any additives.
You can also buy products considered “anti-transpirants” or “anti-desiccants” which can be used by spraying the entire tree bringing in and decorating. These products help seal in moisture. However, do not use these products on colored evergreens such as blue spruces since the product will damage the wax coating that gives these trees their distinctive color.
Locate your tree away from space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves and other heat sources. A well-cared for tree should normally remain fresh for at least 3 to 4 weeks. Once the holiday season has passed, dispose of the Christmas tree in a safe and appropriate manner. You can add the tree to a compost pile; or consider using it outside for the winter and decorate with food for the birds and other animals.