Choose a fresh tree. A fresh tree will have
a healthy green appearance with few browning needles. Needles
should be flexible and not fall off if you run a branch through
your hand. Raise the tree a few inches off the ground and drop
it on the butt end. Green needles should not drop off the tree.
It is normal for a few inner brown needles to drop off.
Make sure the handle or base of the tree
is straight and 6-8 inches long so it will fit easily into the
stand.
If you are not putting the tree up right
away store it in an unheated garage or some other area out of
the wind and cold (freezing) temperatures. Make a fresh one inch
cut on the butt end and place the tree in a bucket of warm water.
When you decide to bring the tree
indoors, make another fresh one inch cut and place the tree in
a sturdy stand that holds at least 1/2 gallon of water.Be sure
to keep the water level about the base of the tree. If the base
dries out resin will form over the cut end and the tree will
not be able to absorb water and will dry out quickly. Commercially
prepared mixes; aspirin; sugar and other additives added to the
water are not necessary. Research has shown that plain water
will keep a tree fresh.
