We think the balsam fir is a tree you should know. Although it isn’t the most popular Christmas tree to consumers (Scotch pine), it is arguably the most Canadian. Here are some tips on keeping your cut Christmas tree fresh longer.
Put the fresh cut tree in water as soon as possible. If you cut your own, most Christmas tree species can go up to eight hours after being cut and still take up water once put in a reservoir. If you buy it pre-cut, cut a ½” off the bottom and immediately place in water.
Make the cut perpendicular to the tree trunk to maximize water uptake. Do not peel back the outer layers as they work to make water readily available to the tree. Drilling holes don’t help and will save you some bother.
Ensure that you are using a stand that contains a reservoir to hold a quart (a bit less than a litre) of water for every inch of trunk diameter. Also check the reservoir daily and top it up as needed so the base is constantly in water.
Keep the tree away from a major source of heat, i.e. vent, fireplace, south exposure, certain Christmas light bulbs.
Inspect lights before installing for broken bulbs and broken or exposed wiring. Ensure bulbs are LED or a low-heat variety. Shutting lights off at night or when the house is empty is advisable.
Typically, fir species like the balsam fir last the longest but generally cut trees last from three to six weeks with care.
After being indoors, Christmas trees can have a second life in the yard as habitat for birds. They could also be put through a shredder to make mulch, or hobbyists can get creative and use the trunk for crafting.
For more seasonal tips that you can use on your farm, market garden, homestead or property, subscribe here and get Small Farm Canada delivered straight to your door!