Selecting A Christmas Tree
When you visit a choose-and-cut operation, your whole family can come to the farm, walk among the trees and find one that will fit that special spot in your home. When you decide to purchase a freshly cut Florida-grown tree, make sure that the stand you use will allow for watering the tree. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes -- real Christmas trees grow in natural environments. Watch for uneven ground, stumps, deer trails and other natural sights at the farm you have chosen to visit. Bring your whole family and make a day of it. Don't forget your camera, for this will become a special part of your holiday tradition.
Determine where in your home you will display your tree. With this in mind, you will be able to tell what height tree you will need and whether all four sides of the tree must be suitable for display.
Freshness is an important key when selecting your tree. The needles should be resilient. Take hold of a branch about six inches from the tip, between your thumb and forefinger, then pull your hand toward you allowing the branch to slip through your fingers. The needles should adhere to the branch and not fall off in your hand. The needles should be flexible, not brittle.
The tree should have a good fragrance and good green color. A fresh tree will retain its moisture content and thereby keep its fragrance and needles, if kept in a stand that has a good water-holding capacity.
