Make your Christmas tree last
Clear the area for a straight, clean, level cut
Clear the area for a straight, clean, level cut
Clear the area for a straight, clean, level cut
First, know that Christmas trees shed some inside needles every fall, and sometimes these needles get stuck in the branches. This is normal for an evergreen. It is not the sign of an 'old' tree. When cutting down a tree, clear branches and the area so you can see what you are doing (pictured). Then, cut straight across the trunk, parallel to the ground. When you put the tree on your vehicle, if you put it on top, face the trunk forward. We have twine to share if you don't have tie-downs or straps. If you have far to go, consider bringing a tarp to wrap your Christmas tree, to protect it from wind damage.
Once you get it home, cut it again.
Clear the area for a straight, clean, level cut
Clear the area for a straight, clean, level cut
Once you have your Christmas tree home, make a fresh cut, straight across the tree trunk, about an inch above the original cut. This re-opens the tree stem 'arteries' so it can take up water. Then, plunge the trunk end immediately into fresh water, and keep it in water. Water daily. Yup, daily.
Christmas trees can absorb up to a gallon of water per day. A lot. Don't let the water level drop below the end of the trunk, or a seal will form, and you will have to cut off the end, again, to allow it to drink and stay fresh. A well-watered Christmas tree smells nicer and is less of a fire hazard.