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Always select and buy the freshest tree possible, one that
is cut the day you bring it home.
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Cut 1 inch off the base, place the tree in a bucket of water,
and stand it in a cool, shady place if you don't plan to set
it up right away.
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When you bring it inside to set up, cut 1/2 inch to 1 inch
off the base of the trunk.
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Make sure the tree stand can hold at least 1 gallon of water.
Add plain water.
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Water the tree every day.
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If the water level drops below the cut end of the trunk, a
seal will form and prevent the tree from absorbing any more
water. If this happens, you will have to make another cut in
the trunk.
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Keep the tree away from vents and sources of heat.
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Use miniature light sets instead of standard size ones. The
former produce less heat and the tree will dry out less quickly.
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Add soda to the water to keep the tree fresh. This also works
well in cut flower arrangements.
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If your tree isn't drawing water, use hot water in the stand.
It will melt the seal at the end of the trunk.
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Adding either brown sugar or aspirin to the water when you
water your christmas tree will keep it fresh longer.
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Use 1 teaspoon of plant nutrient to 1 gallon of water to meet
the tree's nutrient requirements.