When choosing your tree and checking for freshness, ensure most needles stay intact when the tree is shaken. There are a number of dead needles that collect on the interior of the tree from shipping and handling, this is normal. The tree should look healthy, smell fresh, and drink water. Another tip when choosing a tree is to take a needle between your fingers, it should feel firm and snap crisply like celery. Not all trees have the same needles, some needles are pliable and soft and some are heavy and stiff.

The most important thing you can do for your tree is cut 1/2” off the bottom and as soon as possible place in water. Most species can go 6 to 8 hours without water and will still drink. A tree in water can be stored in a cool dark area protected from sun and wind for many days before it is time to bring it in the house.

Heat will draw moisture from a tree. Keep trees away from major sources of heat, fireplace, heaters, heater vents, direct sunlight. Lowering the room temperature will also slow the drying process. Check all electrical cords and lighting. We recommend using LED lights as they emit no heat and draw minimal electricity. An environment of cool temperatures and humidity is better than hot and dry.

The safest tree is a fresh tree installed in a stand that provides plenty of water. Tree recycling is good for the planet, cities and counties. Instead of burning your tree find an agency that will recycle.

Do not let your tree run out of water; a tree will drink 65% of its water within the first week. Having an adequate water reservoir is very important. We recommend 1 quart of water for every 1” of trunk diameter. For example a 4” trunk will drink 4 quarts of water per day for the first several days.

Half of your tree’s weight is water so make sure you install your tree in a stand that fits your tree. You want to avoid whittling down the trunk to fit the stand. The outer layers of the trunk are the most efficient in taking up water.