Keep Your Tree Looking Its Best

1. Select a fresh tree.
The needles should be
moist and not break when
bent with fingers.
2. Store your tree out
of direct sunlight and
away from drafts.
3. Immediately before
the tree is brought inside,
make a half-inch fresh cut
from the trunk and place it
in water.
4. Initially, put hot
water in the tree holder to
remove any sealing pitch.
5. Use a Christmas tree
stand that holds a gallon of
water.
6. Check the stand
every day for water and

keep it full. Never allow
the reservoir to become
dry.
7. Keep your tree away
from a direct heat source.
8. Miniature light bulbs
are better than large bulbs
because they generate less
heat.
9. Christmas trees
should last inside safely at
least a few weeks. When a
tree ceases to "drink"
water, it should be
removed from the house.
From the SUNY College of
Environmental Science and
Forestry