To keep a tree fresh you need to choose a freshly cut tree. You do not want a tree that was cut too early in the season.

When choosing a tree you need to see the tree in its entirety so it should not be wrapped. This will also ensure that there is no disappointments when you get home and find that the tree is missing branches or lopsided.

The needles on the tree should be flexible, moist and fragrant. After you have picked the tree you want, lift the upright tree off the ground a few inches and then give the cut end a bump on the ground to see if any needles fall off. If very few needles drop off you know it is a fresh tree.

Handling the tree properly is important in its health. Fresh cut trees cannot handle temperatures below -5 Celsius as they will freeze causing the needles to drop. Trees should always be kept in a building where temperatures do not go below -5 Celsius so that they are not exposed to the outdoor elements. This is also important when transporting your tree home. The tree should not be tossed in the back of the open pickup. It has to be transported in an enclosed vehicle. If space is a problem you can always have the tree wrapped after you have purchased it so that is easier to transport.

When you bring the tree home you need to re-cut the butt end of the tree as this will allow it to bring up water. Cut off the bottom 2-4 cm. You can also have this done at the garden centre and if you bring your tree stand it will be placed on the tree as well making the tree ready when you bring it home.

To make the tree last longer place it in the following solution overnight (12 hours) and then dump out the solution and fill the stand with fresh water.

-         1 gallon hot water

-         2 cups corn syrup

-         4 tablespoons micronized iron or Iron Chelate

-         4 teaspoons bleach

At home, keep the tree well watered by checking it daily, and keep it away from any major drafts and heating vents.

-Jos