Top Tips on Purchasing a Holiday Christmas Tree For Your Home of Office
Whether you are buying a live Christmas tree to replant later, a fresh cut real Christmas tree or an artificial holiday tree there are some simple and practical tips to be sure you are spending your time and money wisely. This should be a memorable family event including learning about different species, measuring and even pricing. This is a great activity for homeschoolers or any family active in educating their children on subjects from nature to math. There is something fun for everyone to do in planning the trip to the store or Christmas tree farm.
MEASURE: By taking the time to measure the ceiling height and floor space available in the room where the tree will be displayed you will prevent a very frustrating afternoon trying to cut down and trim an oversized tree. It will also allow you to be comfortable buying the fullest tree you can afford to fill the space. If you are buying a tree outdoor it is too hard to “eye” its size since the sky is literally the limit. Bring a measuring tape with you to the tree farm or retailer.
KNOW YOUR RETAILER: This tip is especially true when buying a tree you will be re-planting later but also important when buying a fresh cut to ensure longevity. The store, farm or lot should be visited in daylight or it should be well-lit. Get to know the retailer. Ask them when their trees are delivered. Is it once at the beginning of the season or is there a continual replenishing of fresh cut trees. For live trees be sure to get their guarantee policy in case it does not remain healthy.
KNOW YOUR SPECIES: Become familiar with the species popular in your area before shopping. Some species last longer and stay fresh longer than others in different climates. Spend time researching which tree performs best in your particular climate. This is especially important when buying a roots attached tree. A surprisingly important tip in knowing your species is to consider your decorating theme. Some species of trees have long needles, some are very open. What natural design works best with your scheme? Check on the bend of your chosen species trunk. Some, like pines, have a natural crook.
FRESH IS BEST: Don’t buy any Christmas tree you have not done the freshness test on. Like fresh vegetables green needles on fresh fir trees snap crisply when bent sharply. Fresh pine needles don’t break unless they are very dry, which is a bad sign. You do not want to see excessive needle loss, pliable needles, wrinkly bark, and discolored foliage or smell a musty odor. If you are buying a rooted burlap bag tree check to be sure the root ball has been kept damp.
DON’T FORGET TO THINK GREEN: Ask the retailer about recycling fresh cut Christmas trees in your community.
DON‘T BE SAPPY: You have the wisdom to have invested in heirloom quality Amish solid hard wood furnishings that make a stunning back drop to your holiday Christmas tree and seasonal décor. Be certain to use precaution when placing a natural tree in your home. Remember that sap can damage hardwood floors and furniture; even with a durable finish like ARESISTOVAR. Prevention is easier than repair and a few minutes putting on table pads or covering in sheets or floor skirts will keep your floors and Amish furniture free from sap damage.
Tags: Amish Furniture Styles, Christmas, christmas tree farm, cut trees, hardwood, holiday tree, homeschoolers, memorable family event, TREE RETAILER
