Oney's Tree Farm & Nursery

Proper Cut Christmas Tree Care:

Remember, a Christmas tree is a living thing; care for it as you would a cut flower. To insure an attractive tree that stays fresh indoors for several weeks, follow these suggestions to keep it fresh and safe:

• If you buy your tree several days before it will be set up, store your tree outdoors or on a cool porch until you are ready to decorate. An area that provides shelter from the wind or sun will help the tree retain its moisture.

• If you plan to store the tree several days, make a straight cut across the butt of the tree about an inch from the end. This opens the tree stem so it can take up water. Store the tree upright and place the butt end in a container of water.

• When you bring the tree into the house for decorating, make another fresh, straight across cut on the butt of the trunk, about an inch from the original cut. Use a stand that holds water.

• Trees are thirsty. They may drink between two pints and a gallon of water per day- so make sure to check daily and supply fresh water as needed. A stand which holds a least a gallon of water is recommended. IF you allow the water level to drop below the trunk, a seal will form just as it does on a cut flower, and a new cut will be needed.

• Place the tree away from fireplaces, radiators, TV sets and other heat sources. Turn off the tree lights when you leave you home and before you retire for the night.

• Avoid use of combustible decorations. Check all electric lights and connections. Do not use lights with warm or frayed cords and NEVER use lighted candles.

Proper Care for Burlapped Christmas Trees:

• Start by deciding where your tree will be placed outside after the Holiday. Dig a hole BEFORE the ground freezes, approximately 30 inches around by 24 inches deep. Keep the extra soil from the hole in a plastic bag in a sheltered area so that it doesn't freeze.

• Store your balled tree in an unheated, sheltered area, such as a garage, until you are ready to bring the tree indoors. We do not recommend bringing a tree indoors longer than 5 days, and trees should be under 6 feet tall. Keep the ball moist. Make sure that the ball is not frozen before bringing the tree indoors.

• Use a galvanized tub or a third of a plastic garbage can to use as a tree stand. Line this with plastic to prevent leaking.

• Never place live trees near a heat source, or in direct sunlight. Needles may be misted to retain moisture, and a commercial preparation called "Wilt-Pruf" may be used. The most important thing to remember, is to NEVER let the ball dry out.

• After Christmas, return the tree to your sheltered, unheated area for several days to harden off. Keep tree damp. Pick a day to plant your tree when the temperature is above 30° F.

• Bring your tree to the hole and remove any twine, nails, or wire that is securing the burlap to the ball of the tree. After the burlap is removed, place the tree into the hole and backfill, using the soil that you saved from when you dug the hole. Make sure to tightly pack down the soil and then water your tree. Also, it helps to mulch around the tree with straw, leaves, etc...this will keep the ball from losing moisture.

• If your tree is in a windy area, it is recommended to use a windbreak of some sort. Burlap can be used as well as plastic sheeting.