Green Acres Christmas Tree Farm

Make a Fresh Cut

Make a fresh cut on the butt of the tree to open up the pores, which have been clogged by sap. Cut off at least one-half inch. The fresh-cut surface should be cream-white, not yellow or brown. If you do not make a fresh cut, the tree will not be able to drink water.

After the cut is made, put the tree in water as soon as possible. The longer the time between when the tree is given a fresh cut and when it is put into water, the less ability the tree has to absorb water.

Even if a hole is drilled to accommodate a pin-type stand, a fresh cut also should be made on the butt.

Put in Water

Check stands for leaks.

Rinse water reservoir of the tree stand with a mixture of one capful of bleach and one cup of water before inserting the tree. This reduces the growth of microorganisms that can block the tree’s ability to absorb water. Great care should be taken to avoid spilling or splashing the bleach on carpeting, etc.

Place the tree in a sturdy stand, which will hold at least one gallon of water. Fill with plain water.

If the tree is not going into the house soon after purchase, it should be stored in a bucket of warm water on a cool porch or patio away from wind and sun in warm climates and protected from freezing and wind in cold climates.

An average tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.

If the water level drops below the cut end of the trunk, a seal will form and the tree will absorb no more water unless another fresh cut is made. So don’t forget to add water every day.

Christmas Trees Take on A New Life After the Holidays
Christmas trees are more than just the celebration of life during the holidays; they’re a source of life after it. Each year more consumers are discovering the recyclable, renewable benefits of real Christmas trees.

Real Christmas trees, unlike artificial ones, which aren’t biodegradable and will remain in landfills for centuries after they’re disposed of, can provide something back to the environment in a variety of ways:

Christmas trees are biodegradable – the trunk and branches can be used as mulch for gardens, parks or in animal stalls. The mulch provides a protect barrier for the roots of other plants and vegetation while preventing weeds from growing. The mulch then decomposes, providing the nutrients plants need to thrive.

Mulching programs are a fast-growing trend in communities throughout the state. Check with your local department of public works for information.

Some communities use Christmas trees to make effective sand and soil erosion barriers, especially at beaches and on riverbeds. Sunk into private fish ponds trees make excellent refuge and feeding area for fish. Before recycling, Christmas trees can be used to make bird feeders, adding color and excitement to the winter garden. Utilize orange slices, suet, and seed to attract the birds. They will come for the food and stay for the shelter in the branches.

Important: Never burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove. Burning the tree may contribute to creosote buildup.

It's that time of year again

start typeing

A Family tradition: Bringing fresh Christmas trees, memories and fun from our family to yours