Christmas Tree Care Tips

Make your tree last safely

always recycle your tree!

Get it home any way you can.

Tree Facts Did You Know...

• Each year about 30 million Americans select and take home an evergreen tree to decorate with ornaments and lights for the holidays.
• Your Christmas tree has been intentionally grown for your enjoyment, and is a renewable source. 90% of the trees sold are grown on plantations as a crop. 10% come from natural stands. 90% of all trees sold in the U.S. are grown in the U.S. 10% are Canadian grown.  
• There are about 1 million acres in production for growing Christmas trees.
• Christmas trees are often grown on land that is unsuitable for farming. By utilizing these fields, tree farmers help to control soil erosion and provide year-round homes for wildlife.
• Over 100,000 people are employed by the Real Christmas tree industry in the U.S.  
• One acre of Christmas trees produces the daily oxygen requirement for 18 people. During photosynthesis trees absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen. For every full grown tree that is cut, two to three seedlings are planted in its place. This is even better for the environment because young trees have a higher rate of photosynthesis than do older trees.

Tree Maintenance

• Care for the tree as carefully as you care for cut flowers. 
• Let the tree remain outdoors or on a cool porch until you are ready to decorate. An area that provides protection from the wind will help the tree retain its moisture.
• Make a fresh, straight cut across the trunk about an inch up from the original cut and place the trunk end immediately into fresh water. This opens the tree stem so it can take up water. If you allow the water level to drop below the trunk, a seal will form just as it does on a cut flower, and a new cut will be necessary. As long as the tree keeps drawing water it will remain fresh.
• Trees are thirsty! They may drink between 2 pints to a gallon of water per day – so make sure to check daily and supply fresh water as needed. Remember, a fresh supply of water is essential to keep the tree fresh.

Holiday Safety

• Be sure the tree is well supported in a water-holding stand and is away from fireplaces, radiators, TV sets, and other heat sources. These elements can prematurely dry your tree.  
• Avoid use of combustible decorations. Check all electric lights and connections. Do not use lights with worn or frayed cords and do not overload electrical circuits. Lights should be off when the house is unattended and when you retire each evening. NEVER use lighted candles.

Recycling  

1. Community Recycling Program: Many communities are sponsoring Christmas tree recycling programs allowing residents to deliver their trees to local parks. The by-product of recycled trees is mulch. The mulch from your tree is used as ground cover and on walkways. Many communities allow their residents to pick up the mulch for their personal use while the supply lasts. Contact your local city hall or Post-Dispatch for drop sites. DO NOT take wreaths and decorative roping to drop sites.  
2. Local Waste Hauler: Local waste haulers have schedules for curb side pick-up of your Christmas tree. The trees are taken to local composite sites. Contact you current waste hauler for details.