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FAQ

  • Purchasing a REAL Christmas Tree

    • What size tree should I get?

      Be sure you know what size (height and width) you need before heading to the retail lot or choose and cut farm. Smaller trees can make a great tabletop display for smaller apartments or condos.

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    • How do I tell if a tree is fresh?

      Do a freshness test on the trees. Look for green needles that have a wonderful, christmas tree smell.

      Look for other indicators of dryness or deterioration: excessive needle loss, discolored foliage, musty odor, needle pliability and wrinkled bark. A good rule of thumb is, when in doubt about the freshness of a tree, select another one. If none of the trees on the lot look fresh, go to another lot.
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  • Tree Care

    • Is a fresh cut necessary before putting my tree in water?

      Always make a fresh cut on the bottom of the tree to open up the pores, which have been clogged by sap. Cut off at least one-half inch. If you do not make a fresh cut, the tree will not be able to drink water.

      After the cut is made, put the tree in water as soon as possible. The longer the time between when the tree is given a fresh cut and when it is put into water, the less ability the tree has to absorb water.

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    • How much should I cut off?

      Cut off at least one-half inch. The fresh-cut surface should be creamy white, not yellow or brown. If you do not make a fresh cut, the tree will not be able to drink water.

      The cut should be perpendicular to the stem and not at an angle or "v" shape. The outer layers of the tree are the best at taking up water and should not be removed.

      Even if a hole is drilled to accomodate a pin-type stand, a fresh cut also should be made on the stem of the tree.

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    • How do I prepare my tree stand?

      Check your stand for leaks.

      Rinse water reservoir of the tree stand with a mixture of one capful of bleach and one cup of water before inserting the tree. This reduces the growth of micro-organisms that can block the tree's ability to absorb water. Be careful to avoid spilling or splashing the bleach on carpeting, etc.

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    • How large should my water stand be?

      Use a large capacity stand which will hold at least one gallon of water.

      Check the water level frequently since trees can drink large amounts of water each day. An average tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.

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    • How often should I add water?

      Water daily. An average tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.

      If the water level drops below the cut end of the trunk, a seal will form and no more water will be absorbed by the tree unless another fresh cut is made. So don't forget to add water every day.

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  • Safety

    • Where should I put my tree?

      Place the tree away from heat sources such as heating vents, fireplaces, wood stoves and fireplace inserts, radiators, television sets or sunny windows.

      Be careful not to block a door with the tree or rearranged furniture.

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    • What type of lights should I use on my tree?

      Miniature lights produce much less heat and reduce the drying effect upon a tree. Use UL approved lights.

      Always check light sets for frayed or cracked wire insulation and broken sockets before placing them on a tree. Do not attempt to repair a worn light set. Throw it away and buy a new set.

      Always turn off teh eights of your tree when leaving the house or retiring for the night.

      Never use lighted candles.

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  • Recycling

    • How do I recycle my tree?

      Check for your local chipping and composting program with your local disposal service, parks and recreation department, local nursery or service organization or by going to www.earth911.com to find a recycling program near you.

      After Christmas, before the tree dries, remove it from the house for recycling or pick up by your disposal service.

      Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a wood stove or fireplace.


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    • Is a REAL Christmas tree recyclable?

      REAL Christmas trees are recyclable and can be used throughout the community.
      Recycled trees can be turned into corrugated packaging, compost for gardens or used as mulch along park trails to prevent erosion. Some conservation organizations use recycled Christmas trees to create protected habitats for wildlife, such as herons or endangered fish.

      Recycling your tree helps protect the environment and keep your community a beautiful place in which to live.
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  • Growing REAL Christmas Trees