Make a Fresh Cut

· Make a fresh cut on the butt to open up the pores which have been clogged by sap. Cut off at least one-half inch.

· The fresh-cut surface should be creamy-white, not yellow or brown. If you do not make a fresh cut, the tree will not be able to drink water.

· After the cut is made, put the tree in water as soon as possible. The longer the time between when the tree is given a fresh cut and when it is put into the water, the less ability the tree has to absorb water.

· Even if a hole is drilled to accommodate a pin-type stand, a fresh cut also should be made on the butt.

Place Tree in Water

· Check the stand for leaks.

· Place the tree in a sturdy stand which will hold at least one gallon of water. Fill with water treated with Tree Preserve according to the directions.

· If the tree is not going into the house soon after the purchase, it should be stored in a bucket of clear water on a cool porch or patio away from wind and sun in warm climates and protected from freezing and wind in cold climates.

Water Daily

· A cut tree will drink 65% of its water in the first week. A good rule of thumb is that for every 1” of diameter, a tree will use a quart of water per day. For example, a 4” diameter tree will use 1 gallon of water per day for the first several days.

· An average tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day. Add Tree Preserve with each watering according to the directions.

· If the water level drops below the cut end of the trunk, a seal will form and no more water will be absorbed by the tree unless another fresh cut is made. So don’t forget to add water every day.

Keep Away From Heat Sources

· Place the tree away from heat sources such as heating vents, fireplaces, wood stoves and fireplace inserts, radiators, television sets or sunny windows.

· Be careful not to block a door with the tree or rearranged furniture.

Mini-Lights Produce Minimum Heat

· Miniature lights product much less heat and reduce the drying effect upon a tree.

· Always check light sets for frayed or cracked wire insulation and broken sockets before placing them on a tree.

· Do not attempt to repair a worn light set. Throw it away and buy a new set.

· Do not overload electrical circuits.

· Never use lighted candles.

Remove Tree Promptly

· Check out your local chipping and composting program with the parks and recreation department, local nursery or service organization.

· After Christmas, before the tree dies, remove it from the house for recycling or pick up by your local disposal service.

· Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a wood stove or fireplace.

Source: California Christmas Tree Association, 2002 12/04