It’s the time of year again when we bring the scents and sights of the outdoors inside with live Christmas trees and holiday greenery.
Live trees are beautiful and smell amazing, but the dry Colorado climate definitely poses some challenges to keeping your tree looking great all month. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to prolong the life of your tree and fresh greenery.
First, after you choose a tree, ask the attendant at the tree lot to cut about one inch off of the bottom of the trunk. When the tree is cut down, it will try to seal the cut to protect area. When it seals the cut, it prevents moisture loss from that area, but it also prevents the tree from taking up as much water when it is in the stand. After a fresh cut has been made to the trunk, put the tree in water as soon as possible to prevent the cut from sealing again. It helps to store the tree in a bucket of fresh water while you are preparing the display sight in your home and getting ready to put it in the tree stand.
Before you bring the tree inside, spray it liberally with a product called Wilt Stop. Wilt Stop puts a protective coating on the needles, which will prevent moisture loss. It is like lip balm for the needles. Wilt Stop also works wonderfully on wreaths, garlands, and any other holiday greens. It only needs to be applied once, right when you get your greenery home.
In addition to Wilt Stop, there are also additives that can be added to the water in your tree stand. These help keep the tree fresh and prevent fungus from growing. Whether you use the additives or not, always make sure your tree has plenty of fresh water. Check the water level in the stand often and top it off every day.
Finally, try to place your tree and greens in an area of your home that is away from heating vents and protected from drafts. If they must be placed near vents, consider closing that individual vent for the holiday season. You don’t want hot, dry air blowing on your greenery and drying them out.
With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty and scents that fresh greenery brings to your home all season long!
