Day 6- Tips For Selecting And Caring For Your Live Christmas Tree

<p><strong>Hi and welcome to Day 6 of my 12 Days Of Christmas series. </strong>There is no right or wrong type of tree to purchase, when it comes to choosing a Christmas tree. It really depends on what you like and what you can find. Having a fresh cut tree is so much better than an artificial tree, any day of the week. However, I understand the convenience of having an artificial tree.</p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>Here are some of the most popular conifers grown for Christmas trees:</strong></p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>Douglas Firs</strong>- Have soft, flat, blue-green needles that are attached singly to the stem.</p> <p><strong>Frasier And Balsam Firs</strong>- Have soft, flat, dark green needles marked by silver bands on the undersides.</p> <p><strong>White and Scotch pines</strong>- Have needles bundled into groups of five (white pine) or two (Scotch pine).</p> <p><strong>Colorado Blue Spruce</strong>- Have sharp, square needles that are attached singly to the stem.</p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>How To Select A Fresh Tree:</strong></p> <p><br></p> <p>You can be assured of getting a fresh tree if you cut your own tree from a local Christmas tree farm. While this is a cherished family tradition for many, the convenience of purchasing a pre-cut tree is more attractive for others. To check a pre-cut tree for freshness, look for flexible needles that remain firmly attached when you tug on them. All needled evergreens shed their oldest needles every year, so do not be concerned when brown needles fall from the interior of the tree when you knock the base of the tree on the ground. Just make sure they are thoroughly shaken off the tree before taking it indoors. If the needles pull out easily, or if they appear a dull, lifeless green, that tree may be past its prime.</p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>How To Maintain Freshness:</strong></p> <p><br></p> <p>Maintaining a high moisture level in the tree is the single most important factor in reducing needle loss and keeping the tree fresh. This is accomplished primarily through the u