Christmas Tree Tips & Local Grower List from Cooperative Extension

Consumers who wish to purchase freshly-cut Christmas for the holidays can find an updated list of local farms on the Tompkins County Cooperative Extension website at: http://ccetompkins.org/fresh-trees.

The list includes U-cut tree farms in Ithaca, Groton, Lansing, Newfield, Trumansburg, Berkshire and Spencer.  In addition to a variety of pre-cut or U-cut trees, some farms also offer potted live trees; fresh roping, swags and wreaths; handmade crafts; and refreshments and wagon rides to make your holiday visit memorable.  There are also tips on the CCE-Tompkins web site on how to care for your live tree and how to plant it successfully.

New York has approximately 1,800 acres of Christmas trees and ranks fifth nationally in Christmas tree production.  Buying a locally-grown tree helps to sustain local farmers, keeps land open and productive, and strengthens our local economy.

The following tips from the Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York will help your fresh-cut, locally-grown tree look good throughout the holidays.  1. After bringing the tree home, cut one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. Keep the tree outdoors in a container of water and protect it from the wind and sun until you’re ready to decorate. This helps the tree retain moisture.  2. Before you bring the tree indoors, make another fresh cut of at least one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. This reopens the tree stem so it can take water immediately. Place it in a stand with fresh water. Do not allow the water level to drop below the fresh cut or the stem will reseal.  3. Remember, trees are very thirsty and may drink from 2 pints to 1 gallon of water a day. Use a stand with 1-gallon capacity or more. Keep your tree away from drying heat sources such as sunny windows, hot air ducts and fireplaces. Check the water level daily and supply fresh water as needed.

Additional interesting Christmas tree facts, history, and tips for selection and care, can be found on the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension site at: http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/trees/treefacts.html