8LF | THURSDAY , DECEMBER 3 , 2020 | THE RECORD
A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION OF THE RECORD
Homescape
INTERIOR DESIGN ❚ HOME IMPROVEMENT
Choosing a fresh-cut Christmas tree is the first step to a wonderful holiday
By TERI GATTO SPECIAL TO HOMESCAPE
The holidays are only weeks away ,
and while there are many activities we have to forgo this year , others are still doable , such as selecting that perfect fresh-cut Christmas tree . And while many pick their tree from a local garden center or a pop-up Christmas tree lot , others make a day of it and drive to a tree farm .
“ Each Christmas , tree farms offer something special to their customers ,” says Chris Nicholson , president of the New Jersey Christmas Tree Growers Association and the owner of Hidden Pond
GETTY / MARTIN BARRAUD
Trees with sturdy branches support lights , ornaments .
Tree Farm in Mendham . “ Some of us offer hot chocolate , others provide hayrides ; but more importantly , we offer that feel-good , old-fashioned Christmas spirit , which is so needed during these difficult times .”
MAKING THE RIGHT PITCH Choosing a fresh tree is key . So , start with the basics ; make sure that the needles are shiny and green and don ’ t fall off when you move the branches . Also , check the space between the branches ; a dense tree is lovely but remember , you need some space so the ornaments can hang easily .
Make sure you have a realistic idea of the height , depth and width of the area where you plan to place the tree . It will help you select
one that will fit well into its designated space . Now you can begin to look for that perfect tree . “ Firs and spruces are two of our most popular trees ,” says Nicholson . “ In particular the Caanan fir , which is a
‘ cousin ’ of the Fraser fir .”
A fairly new tree on the market , the Caanan is a cross between balsam and Fraser firs , two of the most popular types of Christmas trees sold in the U . S . These three trees may be a bit more expensive than pines , but they are worth it since they hold on to their needles longer , have strong branches , and will fill your home with a wonderful Christmas scent .
“ The concolor is another popular fir , but it is harder to find because it is slowgrowing ,” adds Nicholson . Also known as a “ white ” fir , the concolor is silvery bluegreen , with long , soft needles , and gives off a citrusy scent .
The blue spruce has stiff branches and sharp 1 / 2-inch to 1 1 / 2-inch needles , which can make it a challenge to decorate . This tree will not shed much and has a pleasant , piney scent . The white spruce , however , has short , stiff needles that give off an unpleasant scent when crushed . KEEPING YOUR TREE LONG LASTING “ The most important thing to do to keep a tree fresh is to water it immediately ,” advises Nicholson . “ If you don ’ t , the bottom of the stump will seal and it will not be able to absorb water .”
Nicholson advises that before placing the tree in its stand , re-cut a 1 / 2-inch slice off the bottom of the trunk . Then , once it is in its stand , water immediately and continue watering daily , as needed .
Sometimes , people purchase products that purport to extend the life of Christmas trees , but Nicholson says there is no scientific evidence that these additives do what they claim . “ A fresh-cut tree should last 5 to 6 weeks when properly cared for with plain water ,” he adds . To maintain freshness , it is also important to keep the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces , wood stoves , heat vents and radiators . Also , inspect the lights used to decorate the tree and always turn electric decorations off at night or when you leave the house . Make sure to check the water level in the tree stand once in the morning and once in the evening . PROTECTING YOUR PETS Pets and fresh trees can be a dangerous combination . According to the website PetMD . com , dogs and cats may chew on the limbs of the cut tree and consume tree oils , which may cause drooling and vomiting . Pets may even swallow the tree ’ s needles , which can get caught in the animal ’ s intestinal tract and cause an obstruction .
Chemical additives added to the water to keep the tree fresh are also poisonous to dogs and cats , so it is best to cover the tree base which holds the water with tin foil or plastic wrap and then top it with a festive tree skirt , or just forgo the chemicals .
Electric lights and ornaments should be kept out of the reach of pets by placing them in higher branches . The same applies to decorations such as tinsel , angel hair , spun glass and plastic ornaments .
RECYCLING YOUR TREE According to the Arbor Day Foundation , after the holidays are over , your Christmas
Securely wrapping and tying down a fresh-cut tree will get it home safely , protect the branches and help to retain its shape .
GETTY / DIANE 39 tree can be recycled in a variety of ways . For example , the trees can be mulched or composted , and used to keep the trees in your yard moist and healthy during the winter . Pine needles are nutritious and also help the soil from compacting .
Cut the branches from the tree and use them to cover your garden beds .
The branches will protect the plants during the winter months and spring thaws .
If you don ’ t have a yard , check with your municipality as to what to do with the tree . Most have composting programs . A SHOUT-OUT FOR FAUX TREES Fresh-cut trees are not for everyone . Many people suffer from outdoor or mold allergies , so a fresh tree is not an option . Others just don ’ t want to deal with the added stress of falling needles , daily watering and discarding the tree .
Today , there are artificial trees of every imaginable style , size and color .
Artificial trees are easy to assemble and easy to take apart for storage . There are skinny trees that fit into tight spaces , and there are pre-lit models that you plug in and voila — a perfectly decorated tree !
dream in
Schedule your design consultation online or by phone Ask about our kitchen & cabinetry design
160 Route 17North , Paramus | 201.322.5000 KohlerNJ . com