Obtain your tree early in the season before it begins to dry out in the open tree lot. Ideally, choose a tree that has been grown in your own region. Measure the ceiling height where the tree is to be placed to be sure that it is at least one foot shorter; this also compensates for the height of the tree stand. When you gently pull a branch toward you, the needles of the tree should be pliable and bend but not break. Shake the tree and bounce the trunk on its stump to test for freshness; if more than a few needles drop, put the tree back and try another. By shaking and bouncing the tree, insects and other foreign objects will also be dislodged.

For information on the characteristics of particular types of Christmas trees, please refer to our guide Care of Holiday  Evergreen Trees and Boughs.

Courtesy of the NYBG Plant Information Service