Caring for Live and Cut Christmas Trees

Cut Trees

A cut evergreen will last longer and stay fresher if the cut end of the tree is kept covered with water continuously. Check the water level daily to assure freshness. A fresh cut may be made prior to putting the tree in the stand to allow better absorption of water. The tree will use more water when it is first brought into the house, so be extra observant in the first week. There are many additives to add to water to help preserve trees, but the ready supply of water is the most important.

Place the tree as far away from heat vents and fireplaces as possible. An unheated room or sun porch is the best indoor location for your tree.

When you are done with the tree, recycle it, don't just throw it into the trash. You can cut it up and use the boughs for mulch. Most communities have collection sites where the trees are ground for mulch. The Corp of Engineers collects trees at Lake Lanier for construction of fish nesting beds.

Live Trees

Live Christmas trees, either balled and burlapped (B&B), or container grown, will last a lifetime if care for properly during the holiday season.

Do not try to keep a live tree in the house more than three days. Decorate on Christmas Eve and take it down and plant it the day after Christmas. Always keep it moist and do not use lights on your live tree as they cause spotty drying of the needles. It is easier to pre-dig your hole, improve the soil, and refill the hole a week or two before Christmas so that you won't have to be struggling with frozen clay the day after Christmas.

This information was provided by:

Hastings
P.O. Box 190369, Atlanta, Georgia 31119
3920 Peachtree Road N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30319
Phone: 404-869-7447
Fax: 404-869-7449