Christmas is here and we all love decorating our Christmas Trees. Are you choosing the right one for your home? Here are some points to pick the right tree for your home. From, Hippie Citizen Magazine’s list.
Quick Notes
- Find the perfect spot and measure it
- Carry your supplies
- Tree Stand
- Tree Variety
- Tree Freshness
- Tree Transportation
- Fresh Cut
- Attach the tree in the stand
- Trim Branches
- Water effectively
- Decorate the tree
Find the perfect spot and measure it
Where would you like to display your tree? There are many points to consider while trying to find a place for your tree – is the spot near a heat source or sunny window, likely to be tumbled into by kids or pets, next to the fireplace? You need to avoid such areas. Once you have identified a potential spot, measure the space (ceiling height, width) available to place the tree. Make sure to account for the additional tree topper you would be placing on the tree.
Carry your supplies
When you set out to pick a tree, make sure you have your tape measure to make sure the tree will fit in your space. As a general rule of thumb, pick a tree at least six inches shorter than the height of your ceiling. Also carry a pair of heavy gloves to handle the tree without injuring yourself and a blanket to place on top of your car roof before tying your tree to it. Most places do offer twine or rope to tie the tree but it’s always better to carry your own, in case they don’t have any on hand.
Tree Stand
If you have a tree stand waiting at home, make sure that the tree diameter will fit in the stand. While picking a new stand, you will need to consider its sturdiness and its ability to hold lots of water. The height of the stand is equally important – for instance, in a home with a 9 feet ceiling, you can pick a 1 foot stand which can hold a tree up to 7 feet with a 6-inch tree topper.
Tree Variety
Spruce trees have sharp needles while Pines and Firs have softer ones. This is a point to consider if you have little children or pets at home who may get hurt while interacting with the tree. The colour of the tree also matters. Some are dark green and others may have gray or white hues, but if the leaves appear brown, steer clear! “The greener the tree, the better” is a thought followed by most.
Branch spacing is not to be missed. If the tree already looks full minus ornaments, you might find it difficult to decorate it.
Tree Freshness
Hold the inner branch of the tree you like and gently pull your hand back. If the needles fall out, it’s likely not fresh enough. Also, the needles should look glossy and green.
Tree Transportation
It would be best to transport the tree inside your car but this would be possible only if you have a big van or SUV with an open-access trunk. You can wrap the tree in tarp or an old blanket, to protect it from damage while driving back home with it tied to the car roof.
Fresh Cut
This is a very important step. You need to make a fresh cut and place it in water as soon as you reach home to enable the tree to soak up fresh water. This will help keep the tree alive for longer. You can also adjust the height of the tree to fit your home, while you are at it.
Attach the tree in the stand
Make sure you are placing your tree vertically in the stand. If you need to provide additional base support, you can add a piece of plywood on the floor and place the stand on it. Make sure you add a plastic or waterproof sheet on the floor to protect your carpet or floor from water damage. Ensure that there is enough water in the stand to prevent your tree from drying out. You may need to secure the tree or a wall or some furniture if you feel that it may get knocked over by kids or pets.
Trim Branches
Depending on how the tree looks inside your home, you may need to trim some additional branches or the top of the tree. You can use these trimmed branches in your home decor.
Water Effectively
You need to check the water level in your stand everyday to confirm there is enough water for the tree. There are some additives and sprays available that guarantee to keep your tree fresher for longer.
Decorate the Tree
Bring out your box of ornaments and make your tree look mesmerizing. Add ribbons, ornaments and cute little family trinkets to your tree or select a theme and decorate it as per. If you would like to spruce up your old ornaments, here are some easy ways to make them look new and fancy!
Once you are ready to take down the tree, avoid burning it in the name of disposal. This can create a severe fire hazard. Contact your local waste management company or city hall, or look up local regulations to dispose your tree. You can consider recycling for mulch or chipping as disposal options.
