The holiday season is here! Decorations and Christmas trees have been popping up across Shelby County since late October. A good friend who works at Lowe’s Garden Center mentioned that their outdoor area would soon be filled with fresh Christmas trees. This in turn led me to think of what should be kept in mind before making a tree selection this year.

Before purchasing a tree, the first step is deciding where it will be displayed in your home. Choose a location away from direct heat sources such as furnace vents, fireplaces, or space heaters. Heat will cause trees to dry out more quickly, leading to the need for more frequent replenishment of water in the stand.  Additionally, consider the amount of floor space available for the width of the tree. Most importantly, measure your ceiling height. Keep in mind that that your tree will gain a few extra inches once it is placed in the stand, so plan accordingly.

Your next decision is whether you want a pre-cut tree or prefer the experience of visiting a choose-and-cut farm. Pre-cut trees are readily available at garden centers, hardware stores, and freestanding tree lots throughout the Mid-South. If you would like to cut your own, take a little time to research nearby farms and confirm hours and availability before making the trip.

When purchasing a pre-cut tree, be sure to check for freshness. Use the “pull test” by gently tugging on a shoot. A fresh tree should not shed needles into your hand. If you are not ready to bring the tree indoors right away, place the freshly cut end in a bucket of water until you are ready. A well-hydrated tree will hold its needles longer and maintain better color throughout the season.

I hope you enjoy your Christmas tree this year. Don’t forget to recycle your tree once the holidays are over. Thank you for taking the time to read my articles this year, and I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season!