There are some things you should do, and some things you shouldn’t do, when choosing and caring for a live Christmas tree.

According to Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, there are three characteristics to avoid when selecting a live Christmas tree:

• Dull, gray-green needles.
• Dry, stiff and brittle needles.
• Needles drop from tree easily.

“Some commercial sites sell cut trees that have already been stored for several weeks, so evaluate these carefully before purchasing,” Domenghini said.

Once your tree is selected and transported home, re-cut the trunk about one inch above the base just before placing it in a stand. Domenghini said this will open up the plant tissues that enable the tree to pull in water. Place the trunk into the stand with water immediately after cutting.

“As with traditional houseplants, avoid placing your Christmas tree near heat sources or drafty windows and doors,” Domenghini said. “It is important to always keep water in the tree stand reservoir.”

If the cut end of the tree is exposed to air for several hours, it will begin to seal and will need to be re-cut again. Fresh cut trees tend to absorb a lot of water during their first couple of weeks, so check the water level at least every other day, Domenghini said.

“Living trees are a great option for homeowners who have space to add to their landscape,” Domenghini said. “It is also a good idea to dig the hole where the tree will be planted prior to when the ground freezes so it can be planted soon after the holidays.”

Living trees should only be kept indoors for a few days. Trees kept indoors too long will come out of dormancy and initiate new growth.

“If the tree is then moved outdoors during winter, it will not be hardy to the cold conditions and can suffer extreme damage or even death. At planting, water the tree and apply a layer of mulch to prevent the water from freezing,” Domenghini said.