Choosing a real Christmas tree is a fun outing for the whole family and easy to do. Here are a few simple steps for caring for the perfect tree.   Once you've chosen your tree, cut it and taken home, place the trunk in a bucket of water and keep it in a sheltered, unheated area such as a porch or garage to protect it from the wind and sun until you are ready to decorate it.  Before you set up your tree, make a fresh, straight cut across the base of the trunk (about a quarter inch up from the original cut) and place the tree in a tree stand with a gallon of water or more.

Please Note:
Keep the tree stand filled with water. Water is important because it prevents the needles from drying and dropping off and the boughs from drooping and also keeps the tree fragrant.  If the water drops below the base of the tree, a seal of dried sap will form over the cut stump in four to six hours. This dried sap prevents the tree from absorbing water later when the tree stand is refilled. If a seal does form, another fresh cut will need to be made. 

• A tree will absorb as much as a quart of water or more in the first 24 hours and one or more pints a day thereafter.

• Keep your tree in a cool location away from heat and draft sources like fireplaces, registers. 

• To ensure the safe display of your tree, use only light cords that are in good condition. 

• Unplug the lights before you go to bed or leave the house. 

• Never overload electrical circuits. 

Sensible precautions such as these will help preserve the unique beauty and tradition that only a real Christmas tree can provide.