Preparing to Shop For Your Christmas Tree
We’re not here to
tell you what kinds of trees there are, what kind of tree you should get or any
of that. You might already have a favorite variety that you purchase every
year, or you believe in Love At First Sight of Perfect Tree and choose randomly
from year to year. We’re here to review the logistics of getting organized for
bringing your tree home.
Before you go
shopping…
SCOUT OUT THE
PERFECT SPOT IN YOUR HOME. AVOID PLACING YOUR TREE NEAR HEAT SOURCES. You’ll want
to keep your tree away from radiators, fireplaces, heating vents and even
overly sunny windows. Measure the ceiling height and width of the space you
choose. Don’t forget to consider your tree topper when measuring.
MEASURE MEASURE
MEASURE. Once
you’ve decided where you want to place your tree, be sure to measure the space,
write down measurements and take them with you to shop for your tree. This will
make for an easier set up once you get home with your tree. Take your tape measure
along with you to confirm measurements when shopping.
TREE STANDS. Make sure your tree stand will accommodate the size of your tree. It's also a good idea to have a stand that holds a generous amount of water. (We love the Cinco tree stands.) This will cut down on your need to replenish water while you have your tree, which can get tricky once it’s surrounded by gifts.
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| Cinco Tree Stand |
PICK A WINNER. When selecting
your tree, be sure it’s fresh. Needles should not be discolored, nor should
they fall off with a brushing of your hand. Needles should be bendable and not
snap when you test them. If the lot you’re shopping at seems to have all duds,
don’t feel bad. Just wish them a Merry, Merry and check out another lot. You
want your tree to be perfect and special.
TRANSPORT IN
COMFORT.
Consider taking an old blanket to lay out in your car/van for transporting your
tree. Also, take a pair of heavy duty gloves for handling your tree.
WELCOME HOME, TREE! Consider leaving a
bucket of lukewarm water waiting to welcome your thirsty tree. And have your
tree stand on stand-by. A little eggnog might also be a nice reward for
yourself for getting your newest (temporary) member of the family through the
door!
MAINTENANCE. Water your tree
daily the first few days. You may even need to water twice a day.
OTHER TIPS:
Decorating
Guidelines.
For trees up to 8’ tall, you’ll need about 100 lights per foot. Increase to 150
lights per foot for trees over 8’. Depending on the size of the ornaments, you
can use 20 to 50 ornaments per foot of tree.
Keep your
poinsettias well-hydrated and away from warm or cold drafts. Poinsettias are
tropical and sensitive. They like to be well-hydrated and not too cold or too
hot. Keep in mind, if you under-water, the plant will wilt and lower leaves
will drop. If you overwater, the lower leaves will turn yellow and then drop.
Hang your outdoor
lights before it snows! Might make the job a little easier to hang lights
pre-snow. Watch your local forecasts and seize the best weather day!
