Love the smell of a fresh cut Christmas Tree in your house? Here are some tips to consider when buying and caring for your live Christmas Tree:

1. Make sure the tree is fresh. If you pull on a section of needles gently between your thumb and forefinger very few needles should fall off. Or shake the tree. You should not see an excessive amount dropping to the ground.
2. Keep the tree outside with the trunk in a bucket of water until you are ready to decorate it.
3. Before setting up your tree, make a straight cut across the base of the trunk and place it on a stand that can hold a gallon or more of water. Making a fresh cut on the trunk allows it to absorb water more freely and stay healthy longer.
4. The tree will absorb the greatest amount of water in the first 24 hours, so be sure to check it and add water as needed. If the water level falls below the base of the trunk, it will begin to dry out the stump within 4-6 hours. Adequate water not only keeps the tree fresh longer but helps it maintain that fresh tree fragrance.
5. Keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators or any direct sources of heat. Not only can these dry the tree out, but can also become a fire hazard.

Be sure to locate a recycling program or check with your city for special recycling efforts when it’s time to discard your Christmas Tree.