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Picking the Perfect Christmas Tree
Garden Tips Newsletter - December 4, 2000

Christmas is right around the corner along and it is time to put up a Christmas tree. Here are a few tips for selecting a cut tree:

• Look at the tree from a distance and from several angles. Make sure the tree has a good shape, color, fragrance, and that there are no "holes." The trunk should be nearly straight and not too visible.
• Slightly bend a branch. If the tree is fresh, the branch should bend easily and not break.
• Look for sticky sap on the trunk. While the sap can be a nuisance -- it is a sign that the tree is still fresh.
• Grab a handful of needles and pull gently. Very few needles, if any should come loose.
• Shake the tree to see if this is a tree that will drop a lot of needles.

These archived newsletters were written by Dr. Lelia Scott Kelly. Kelly is a Horticulture Specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Her office is in the North Mississippi Research & Extension Center, Verona.