Christmas is only 8 days away! Have you gotten your Christmas tree yet? If not, consider going local this year. There are Christmas tree growers in our area that sell trees direct or you can pick and cut your own tree. Not sure if that perfect tree you are looking at was grown in NY? Then ask the seller. New York has more than 1,000 Christmas tree farms so it should be easy to find a tree that was grown in New York.
New York Christmas tree farms offer a wide variety of Christmas trees. Fraser Firs and Balsam Firs are the most popular varieties in New York State, while White and Blue Spruce, Scotch Pine, and other firs, such as Douglas and Concolour are also available. Many local Christmas tree farms offer other holiday items such as wreaths, swags and fresh roping, along with wonderful handmade crafts. I found some great wooden ornaments and other decorations at the Christmas tree farm I visited. All were locally crafted.
Are you going green? Christmas trees are a renewable resource. For every Christmas tree harvested, up to 3 seedlings are planted in its place the following spring. When you are done with your tree, recycle it. It can be chipped and used as mulch or put it outside and decorate it for the birds with edible treats. It can also be put near your birdfeeder for additional shelter.
Christmas trees are grown on land that may not be suited for traditional agricultural crops. They help stabilize soil and protect local water supplies. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and other gases. Did you know that one acre of Christmas trees emits enough oxygen for 18 people? Christmas tree farms also provide year round habitat for birds and other animals. 32,600 acres of Christmas trees are grown across New York.
Support your local economy. Christmas trees provide additional income for farmers and rural landowners. They also create seasonal jobs and serve as an economic stimulus for local communities, offering not only trees, but tourism opportunities.
What should you do with your tree when you get it home? Follow these guidelines to keep your real Christmas tree fresh throughout the holiday season:
1. Cut one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. Keep the tree outdoors or in an unheated garage 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 into your home, make another fresh cut a minimum of one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. This reopens the tree stem so it can take up 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. Trees 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.
There is nothing like the smell of a freshly cut Christmas tree. This year take the family out and enjoy the adventure of finding that perfect tree.
Sources: NY Dept of Ag & Markets
Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York
National Christmas Tree Association
