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Christmas Tree Care and Maintenance

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Christmas is quickly approaching, and it is time to start putting up the festive décor. Of course, what is Christmas décor without the iconic Christmas tree? There something extraordinary about having a real pine for Christmas. Picking out the perfect tree can be fun in and of itself, but maintaining the tree until Christmas comes with a handful of challenges. So if you are planning on having a real Christmas pine this season, it is essential to understand care and maintenance to have it last for the season.

Picking the Tree

When picking a Christmas tree, you need to find a species that can last well into the season without being rooted. Some of the top species of trees are Scotch Pine, Douglas Fir, White Pine, and Balsam Fir. If you are planning on planting your tree after the holidays, you will need to understand that the tree cannot last very long inside. Most trees can only be replanted on if they have been in your home for shorter than five days. If you are getting a tree, check to make sure none of the pines easily fall off when you touch the tree. You want a tree as freshly cut as possible to allow it to last the season.

Care and Maintenance

When you purchase your tree, have the stem re-opened so the tree can easily drink water. When you get it home, keep it away from any heat source that can speed up the drying out process. While Christmas trees may look great by the fireplace, they can dry out quicker. You should create the stand and allow the tree to drink up a gallon of water immediately. Your tree will need to be watered daily to last until Christmas. The best water to use is just plain tap water. You will notice if your tree is dehydrated when bristles begin falling off, or your water stand for Christmas tree is empty.

After the Holidays

After Christmas, you can consider cutting your tree into firewood for your home. You can also have it chipped into mulch to use around your house. If you have no use for your tree, you can consider donating it. Many nonprofit organizations have many purposes in which they can repose the tree from creating energy, enriching zoo animal habitats, or even hiking trails in parks.

Let’s be honest; what is Christmas without a tree? If you have only ever had faux trees, consider having a real Christmas tree this holiday season. The authentic nature and pine scent throughout the home is just one more way to add to the festive season.

Decorating your tree inexpensively

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16590126_SIf you’ve just moved into your first home, you may want a special holiday tree but can’t rationalize spending lots of money to decorate it. If so, this blog is for you. Here are a handful of ideas to make your tree brilliant and special without investing much money.

Lights: These are often a loss-leader in stores during the holidays, so you can pick up a batch for a reasonable price. If you can, spend a bit more and get the LED lights – they are more expensive initially, but they use much less energy and last longer, so you will save money in the long run.

Ribbons: Your local warehouse store has a wonderful selection of holiday ribbons with 50 yards running under $10. Choose one that appeals to you and matches the mood you want to present and use it liberally as a garland. Notice the way the ribbon on the tree in this photo curls and curves – adding a lot of personality and style.

Edible decorations: Bake ginger cookies and hang them on your tree. Pick up a bag of foil-wrapped chocolate decorations at an import store to add glitz, and you can eat them later. A package of candy canes is reasonably priced and they add charm when hung on branches.

Make it yourself: Holiday gift-wrap can be cut into shapes and hung on your tree. Festive gift tags add color and personality. Check out Pinterest to see what other suggestions people have for handmade holiday decorations. You’d be surprised what you can do with a few supplies and nimble fingers.

Go old-fashioned: Ball ornaments are generally available in a wealth of colors at good prices. Be sure to get plastic or shatterproof if you have pets or children. Even a few of these scattered among the other decorations can make your tree feel finished. If you really want to kick it up a notch, consider tinsel to add the final touch of holiday bling.

Decorating a tree is really not about money. It’s about imagination, style and the joy of having your own tree you created in your new home.