Kramer's Choose & Cut Cristmas Tree Farm

TIPS ON SELECTING A REAL TREE FARM AT A CHOOSE YOUR OWN FARM.
Remember, the Christmas tree purchased from a local Christmas tree farm are as fresh as a Christmas tree can ever be.

EVALUATE YOUR NEEDS BEFORE GOING OUT TO THE FARM.
* Measure the ceiling height in the room were the tree will be displayed. The trees in the field look small when the sky is the ceiling. Don't overbuy.
* Are there any individuals in the household who are allergic to pine, if so, consider another species such as Leyland, Sapphire, ect.
* What decorating theme will be used? Ask the farm operator which species is best suited to your needs. For an example, some species are better at holding heavy ornaments and decorations.
WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE FARM.
* Go to the farm prepared for a day in the country. Wear comfortable shoes and old clothes. Bring rain gear if the weather is threatening. The " cutter downers " and the " loader uppers " should also have gloves. DON'T FORGET THE CAMERA. It's best NOT to bring the dog.
* Saws are usually provided by the farm operator.
* Some farms measure and price their tree individually, others sell them by the foot.
* Head into the field and select the tree that fits your predetermined needs. Check the trunk to be sure that it is sufficiently straight. Keep in mind that pines will usually nave, at least, some crook in their trunks.
In the fall of the year ALL pines drop, or shed, a certain portion of their oldest needles. This is a normal part of the life cycle of the tree. this phenomena occurs because the tree is preparing itself for winter. Most farms provide shaking or blowing services so that you will depart with a perfectly clean pine.
* Cutting the tree is easiest as a two person project. The " cutter downer " usually lies on the ground. While the helper holds the bottom limbs up. While the cut is being made, the helper should tug on the tree lightly to ensure that the saw kerf remains open so that the saw does not bind. The tugging force should be applied to the side of the tree opposite the cut.

Now you're ready to load the tree and head for home to decorate your FRESH AND REAL CHRISTMAS TREE.

CARE FOR YOUR TREE

1.If you must store your tree prior to putting it up, store your tree in a cool damp place, out of the wind and sun to prevent it from drying out.
2.When trunk is cut and exposed to the air it heals over in just a few hours and plugs up the trees ability to take up water. Cut at least a 1/4" off the trunk just before placing the tree in the stand.
3.Thefirst time you fill your stand, use hot water. Tis opens up the trees water passages to allow it to absorb as much as possible. Keep water in the stand at all times to prevent the trunk from healing over. A seven foot tall tree can absorb as much as a gallon of water a day.
4.The use of a tree stand with large water capacity or use a 2 liter bottle tree fountain can make this much easier. A tip for a 2liter bottle fountain is to leave the cap on the bottle and drill a 1/4" hole in it. This makes putting the bottle back in the fountain much less messy.
5.Do not place your tree next to a fireplace, heat register or direct sun light.