Georgians use over a million trees during the holiday season, and over half of those are produced right here in Georgia. Virginia pines, red cedars and Leyland cypress are all grown in Georgia. Sellers also ship in Fraser, Douglas and Grand firs.
Whichever tree you choose to grace your home through the festive season, choose wisely. A fresh tree will last and be fragrant through the season. You can't even use the Christmas spirit to revive one that's dried out.
If a tree looks, feels and smells fresh, it probably is. Trees that have been cut for a while look sort of droopy and faded. Fresh appearance is an important first clue. The color should be bright and the aroma fairly strong. Needles should be pliable, not brittle.
Grasp a branch and let it slide through your fist; very few needles should come off the tree. Another test is to hold the trunk and bang the tree against the ground. Again, few needles should fall off.
Freshness is not a question at "choose-and-cut" farms. These farms are great for families who want to cut their own tree. I remember many Christmas holidays that my parents took my brothers and I to a tree farm in Watkinsville, Georgia not far from our home. It was great fun for all of us.
No matter if you cut your own or go to a retail lot, expect to pay anywhere from $3 - 7 per foot for your Christmas tree. Taller and fuller trees will be at the upper end of the range, and so will fir trees that come from out of state.
Cut your tree again when you get it home. Trees use sap to seal over wounds, and this happens when you cut your tree. By cutting about a quarter inch off the trunk, you are removing this sapped over area allowing the tree to take up necessary water.
Secure the tree upright in a stand that holds at least a gallon of water. A fresh tree can use up to a gallon of water during the first 24 hours. Check the water level several times daily and refill as necessary.
Water is the best thing to put into the stand. Sugar, soft drinks, aspirin and fertilizers typically do more harm than good. Place the tree away from heat sources: heater vents, fireplaces, wood stoves, televisions, etc. Warm, dry air causes the tree to dry out more quickly and become a potential fire hazard.
So this year, leave that artificial tree in the attic and experience the fun of a fresh-cut Christmas tree. By doing so, you will create a lasting holiday memory and support Georgia Forestry.
Billy Skaggs
Agricultural Agent - Hall County Extension Coordinator
734 East Crescent Drive
Gainesville, GA 30501
Phone:(770) 531-6988
Fax: (770)531-3994
Email: [email protected]
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