Christmas Tree Care and After-Christmas Ideas

Congratulations! You found the perfect tree to adorn your home during the holiday season.

Now let's make your tree look beautiful and thrive!

Before you bring your tree inside:

• Stomp the base of the tree on the ground to help dislodge dry needles.
• Since a tree seals its pores within about 15 minutes, make a 1-3 inch fresh cut off the bottom of the trunk so your tree can absorb all the water it can.

Now that your tree is inside:

• Keep your tree out of direct sunlight and away from heating ducts or other heat sources.
• Keep your house on the cooler side.
• Check your tree's water at least twice the first few days, when your tree may drink up to a gallon of water.
• As your tree begins to drink more slowly, check the water daily. If your tree runs out of water or seems like it's not drinking anymore, a fresh cut of the base of the trunk should be made.

Keep in mind that it is natural for your tree to lose needles on the inside branches. You may have heard about additives you can use in the water to help your tree last longer. The jury is still out on whether anything works, or if one works better than another. Water is still the most crucial element to guarantee lasting freshness.

Christmas Trees are a renewable resource. Here are some ideas how you can recycle your tree after the holiday.

• Prop your tree outside, maybe even near a bird feeder. Small birds, such as chickadees and finches, can use this as a habitat until spring. You can even string the tree with orange slices, cranberries, homemade suet, or popcorn to keep your birds happy and full all winter long.
• Donate your tree to a farm with goats! Goats love to eat the trees! Just make sure all ornaments are removed and there is no trace of tinsel.
• Cut up your tree and use the dried wood next year, or use the branches to cover delicate plants and protect them from the cold, snow and ice.
• Mulch up your tree for use in your garden.
• Use the fragrant needles to stuff pillows or sachets you can add to drawers and closets.