Keep a cut tree fresh, fragrant and safe through the holidays with these simple steps.
Set Up
- Get your tree home and into its stand as soon as possible. Otherwise, keep it in a sheltered, unheated area (garage or balcony) to keep it from drying out.
- Before setting up your tree cut about one to two cm (one-half to one inch) off the bottom of your tree and immediately put it in a stand that holds a minimum four litres of water.
- Keep your tree away from heat sources like radiators, heat vents, fireplaces, wood stoves or television sets.
Decorations
- Don't use lights with cracked cords or broken or empty sockets.
- Use only Canadian Standards Association approved mini- or LED-lights. They produce little heat and are energy efficient.
- Never use candles or outdoor light sets.
- Turn tree lights off when no one is in the room.
Water Daily
- On average, trees absorb four litres of water the first day and about one litre per day from then on.
- If the tree runs out of water for more than 2 hours, dried sap will prevent the tree from absorbing water. Make a fresh cut off the bottom and refill the stand.
After the Holidays – recycle it!
Tree care doesn't end with the holiday season! On Saturday, January 6, 2013 bring your tree to the White Rock Fire Fighters annual Christmas tree chipping event at Centennial Arena. All donations go to charity.