Wirral Life November 2016 | Page 21

TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING AND LOOKING AFTER YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE BY CHURCH FARM 1. Buy your Christmas tree from a tree farm if possible, a freshly cut Christmas tree will last longer than one that's been cut weeks earlier and shipped to the UK. 2. Avoid buying trees with dead or brown needles -these trees are already past their prime. A good tip is to gently run your fingers over the branches to check the needles are flexible and remain on the tree. 3. Keep your cut Christmas tree outside with the trunk in water until you are ready to move it inside. A tree can go without water for 8 hours before future water absorption is affected. 4. Once inside the house, cut off about half an inch off the trunk. Do not cut at an angle or drill a hole in the base, neither help water absorption. Avoid using a reciprocal saw or a blade that creates friction. If the cut gets hot, the sap in the tree will seal the end, making water absorption impossible. 5. A Christmas tree should never be mounted dry. It is much better to place it in a container of water that is replenished on a regular basis. 6. Place your Christmas tree away from open flames or heat sources, which may cause it to dry it out too early. wirrallife.com 21