TIPS & TRICKS
When purchasing a live tree , whether already cut at a lot or from a farm where families can cut their own , there are important safety precautions to consider .
For trees already cut , make sure it has not already lost moisture , which could cause it to become a fire hazard . To do this , gently grasp a branch and pull toward you ; very few needles should come off . You can also grasp the tree by the mid base and hit the stem on the ground ; very few needles should come off . Make sure the needles and branches are pliable .
If traveling a long distance with a cut tree , protect it from wind that could dry it out by covering with a cloth or plastic .
Once home , cut half inch from bottom of base and place in clean pail of warm tap water in a cool shaded area away from wind and sun . Before bringing inside , cut another half inch from base and place in a stand designed to hold water .
Trees can use up to a quart of water each day per inch of stem diameter ; a tree with 4-inch diameter will use up to a gallon of water per day . Check frequently .
IN THE HOME
1 . Locate the tree so that all exits from the room are kept open . 2 . Place the tree as far as possible from space heaters , fireplaces , wood stoves , and other heat sources . 3 . Carefully check cords and connections of the electric lights you will be using . Frayed cords or faulty connections are dangerous . 4 . Avoid plugging the tree lights into an overloaded circuit .
5 . Keep metal foil and tinsel out of the tree light sockets . 6 . Do not allow playing with electrical toys under the tree . 7 . Keep all package wrapping and other flammable materials away from the tree . 8 . Never use lighted candles or other open flame on or near the tree . 9 . Never light the tree unless there is someone there to watch it .
SOURCE : University of Maryland , College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
November / December 2020 39