by Marjorie Wise

Created on: December 13, 2008   Last Updated: December 18, 2008

Finding the perfect Christmas tree is part of the fun of Christmas. This one is too tall, that one's not full enough, too many gaps on that one. While all that is important, what really needs to be considered is the freshness of the tree.

The best bet for freshness is to cut the tree yourself. Cut trees on Christmas tree lots may have been cut as early as October and could already be drying out past the point of safety.

Pulling a hand down a branch of the tree shouldn't cause needles to fall off. When bent, the needles should bounce back to their original shape. Brittle needles means the tree is too dry. Smack the tree trunk on the ground a time or two; if green needles fall off, skip that tree.

If your tree has been cut for more than four hours you will need to make a fresh cut about two inches above the base, cutting at a very slight angle. Immediately put the tree in warm water. If you're not taking the tree in the house right away, keep it in a bucket of water and away from sun and wind.

Use a Christmas tree stand that will hold at least a gallon of water. This could mean that you will need to buy a new stand. Trees can absorb a gallon of water in the first 24 hours after cutting and a quart of water a day after that. Once the tree has lost too much moisture, it can't recover. A good tree stand that holds sufficient water may cost $50 or more but the expense is worth the safety it provides. A wet tree is a safer tree. Don't let the water get below the base of the tree; it will rapidly dry out and seal the base. Additives such as vodka or aspirin are not necessary. Just plenty of water. Attaching a funnel to the tree trunk with a cord will allow watering without moving the tree skirt and packages that surrounds the tree. Keep electrical cords away from the water.

Most houses don't have the perfect Christmas tree spot so furniture may have to be shifted to create a good spot that keeps the tree away from:

* direct sunlight

* heat registers and radiators

* the TV

* fireplaces and woodstoves

* candles.

Check Christmas tree lights and extension cords for damage or wear. Lights are cheap so replace any that look questionable. Use only lights labeled for indoor use. Miniature lights produces less heat and less drying of the tree. Use only three sets of lights per extension cord to reduce the risk of overload. Unplug Christmas tree lights when going to bed or leaving the house. Vintage decorations are a delight on the tree but vintage lights are probably not safe. Don't use them. And don't even consider using candles.

How long can you keep your Christmas tree? Some sources say the tree will last five weeks if kept well watered, others recommend only two weeks. When needles start falling off, it's time for the tree to go. A dry tree exposed to heat can be fully in flames in 30 seconds, so check the tree frequently and get rid of it at the first sign of dryness. Pine trees burn hot and fast and the creosote will increase the risk of chimney fire, so it's not a good idea to burn the old tree in a fireplace or wood stove.

All things considered, the most important factor in keeping your Christmas tree from drying out is to keep it well watered. Designate a time of day to check it and do it every day. Remember to keep the water level above the base of the tree and your Christmas tree should stay fresh and fire safe.

Learn more about this author, Marjorie Wise.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.