KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – REAL TREES FOR CHRISTMAS

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – REAL TREES FOR CHRISTMAS

I’m sure many people think an artificial tree is better for the environment as you use the same tree for many years. I’m thinking real trees are actually more environmentally positive and recyclable. Real trees manufacture oxygen their whole growing time. There are many cities and villages that will mulch the tree for you after the season. It makes great mulch. Artificial trees are made of chemicals that are not environmentally friendly and not recyclable.

Trees from neighborhood lots are very nice but are usually quite pricey charging by the foot. I’ve had better luck at home centers like Menards and Home Depot. They have a wide variety of tree types and sizes. They always have my favorite the Fraser Fir at a reasonable price. Frasier’s have thick rather short bluish green needles. The trees are full and have a wonderful pine smell. They also last a good while in the house.

Choosing a fresh tree is a lot of common sense. Keep in mind the space where you are placing the tree. Don’t over buy. Too big a tree looks silly and it’s hard to decorate. Grasp the tree by the trunk and bang it on the ground. Some needles will fall but there should not be too many. Run your hands down the branches. They should be soft and pliable not brittle. If you have the store cut the trunk make sure it’s at least two inches and get it home in a bucket of water as soon as possible. It’s best to do it at home if you’re able.

Leave the tree outside or in the garage in a bucket if you’re not ready to trim it that day. Bring it in and give it several hours to relax and warm up before trimming. Keep as far away as possible from registers and radiators. Keep away from open flames such as fireplaces and candles. Check the water level twice a day for the first two days and once a day thereafter. Many trees will suck up a gallon of water or more in the first couple of days. Never let the water get below the cut! It will seal up!

Make sure all the lights and cords you are using are UL approved and heavy duty. This is probably overkill but it’s better to have more protection than less. I am a big light person usually putting at least six strings on a six foot tree so I always use heavy duty cords. Nevertheless our tree is never on unless there is someone in attendance. Always off when we’re in bed or away. Again maybe overkill but can’t be too safe.

After New Year’s we will talk about recycling the tree.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO