'Deck the halls' with fresh-cut trees, greenery

By: 
Daemon Coughlin, Oakridge Nursery & Landscaping
Growing up I always considered Thanksgiving as the kick-off to the Christmas season, although I think most people would agree that every year the start of the season gets pushed earlier and earlier. I seem to remember going into a store around the first part of October and seeing all the Christmas lights and decorations on display. However early you start decking the halls, please remember fresh trees and greens only last so long.
There is nothing better than the smell of a real tree; however, a real Christmas tree will only last three to four weeks when indoors. It doesn’t really matter whether it is a tree you went out and cut yourself or one that has already been cut. There are a few things that need to be done to get as much enjoyment as possible from your real tree. Before you put the tree in the stand make sure you cut about an inch and a half off of the bottom of the trunk, this will allow the tree to pull water up into the branches. Do not let water level go below the bottom of the trunk. If it does, the cut will seal itself up and the tree will not be able to pull up any more water. Even if you keep the tree watered, at a certain point it will stop taking water. This is normal and does not mean you need to put a new cut on the trunk.  
For fresh wreaths and greens, try to avoid placing in the direct sun as this will cause the greens to dry up faster. Decorative planters of fresh evergreen boughs can last as long as a couple of months outdoors as long as the temps stay cool and they are out of the direct sun. To prolong your porch pots you can spray the evergreen branches with wilt proof. This creates a waxy coating on the needles to hold in moisture.
So, have a happy Thanksgiving and after that turkey settles for a bit, get out to your local garden store and start decorating the house for the Christmas season.

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The Brandon Valley Journal

 

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