Tips for getting perfect Christmas tree

Many Utahns will soon visit their local tree grower or a tree sale lot to search for the perfect Christmas tree. Selecting a good tree and then giving it proper care can ensure a safer, more enjoyable holiday season, said Michael Kuhns, Utah State University Extension forestry specialist.

Here are some tips:

• Before going shopping, measure the area in your home where the tree will be placed. Measure both width and ceiling height. Several inches may be cut from the bottom, but a stand also will add several inches to the tree's overall height.

• To ensure that the tree will remain fresh throughout the holidays, check for freshness and moistness. Once needles become dry, they usually stay dry — even when the tree is placed in a stand with water. Gently pull on several needles to check freshness. If many come off, look for another tree. Also, check the color. Some trees are sprayed with blue-green dye. Though the dye can be harmless, it can be hiding a dry tree.

• Be sure tree limbs are strong enough to support lights and ornaments.

• Once a fresh tree is brought home, re-cut a thin section from the bottom and place the tree in a pail of water until you are ready to decorate it. Place the tree away from heaters, furnace vents, televisions and other heat sources.

• Lights on the tree should be UL approved and protected by an in-line fuse. Small pinpoint lights work well because they stay cool. Never use candles.

• A fresh tree that is watered daily can stay moist and safe for several weeks. If a tree is displayed in a public building, it should be kept no longer than 15 days and should be treated with a fire retardant solution.

• Christmas trees can be useful even after they are taken down. Trees can be placed in the yard to add greenery and act as a bird haven until spring. They can also be used for firewood or chopped and used as mulch. Many communities have programs to gather trees after Christmas to be chipped as mulch or used for other purposes. For information, contact a local extension office.