Tips For Christmas Tree Care And Post-Holiday Cleaning
Nothing says Christmas like a beautiful fir or pine tree decked to the holiday nines in your family home. Many people shy away from the “real” tree option when they are unsure of how to care for the green guest over the course of the holiday season. Here are some tips to get your tree to stay in great shape while on display, and how to clean up after the holiday season comes to an end.
- First, pick the perfect spot for your tree. This should be away from any direct heat sources like vents, portable heaters and electric/gas fireplaces. The heat will cause the needles to dry up and fall out, causing additional mess and work for you!
- Next, when selecting your tree, make sure the lot cuts the stem down to reduce the sap sealing over the trunk and allow for better home hydration.
- Then, make sure you have a sturdy base to hold your tree and fill the water reservoir with fresh water. This should be refilled daily to maximize hydration and minimize lost needles, keeping your tree looking healthy and fuller longer.
- Continuously check for lost needles and sweep these up daily before you vacuum to prevent clogging or breaking your machine. Vacuuming can be done after to collect any remaining particles. As the tree ages, more needles will shed as it continues to dry. Be vigilant and this isn’t really a problem.
- Finally, be sure to note when tree removal is and have your tree prepared for pick up. Biodegradable tree bags are great options to pack up your tree and reduce the amount of fallen needles that will be sure to shake loose during transport. If you don’t have one of these environmentally friendly options, consider using a tarp to carry the tree out to your curb in. This is another way to protect your home from debris and sap. Once the tree is out of doors, be sure to sweep and then vacuum up any leftover matter. You may notice sap on the floor or carpet, which can be removed with dish soap and water. For other surfaces, check out Stain Removal 101!
Now that you know how easy it can be to care of a real Christmas tree, make this the year you try it out! Have a happy holiday season and enjoy decking those halls!