It’s Time to Revamp Your Christmas Tree!
Climate change and eco-friendly are two words that have dominated this year. All of us have been striving for biodegradable and affordable products. People have started learning essential skills because of this trend. DIY crafts are also in vogue to save money on mass-produced goods. This Christmas, experience the Paul Bunyan and Ron Swanson spirit in yourself as you cut and prep your Christmas tree.
Why should you do it?
Cutting and caring for a
Christmas Tree sounds like a hassle. The whole process involves pruning, treating, and watering the tree until Christmas day. But there are many reasons why you should consider doing this one by yourself.
- It’s extremely entertaining to do an activity like this with your family. Especially the kids can get in on the fun. You can wander around tree farms looking for your perfect Christmas tree. This exercise teaches kids valuable lessons in choices, scarcity, nature, compromise, and personal taste.
- Although there are maintenance and transportation costs involved, pre-cut trees are still cheaper. The ready-to-pick trees may be shinier in comparison but they also cost quite a bit. Save the money for so many other Christmas activities. Cut your own tree.
- The adventure that this tree picking will bring your kids is unmatched. They will forget every other Christmas tree except the one they picked out. Create precious memories for your family this season.
- Most cut-your-own-tree farms have wreath and garland making stations as well. So, why not make it a day trip? Indulge the creativity of your kids. Bring home uniquely crafted Christmas greenery.
- The festive environment in these farms is contagious. The sense of companionship with all the other families will cheer you up. Watching the whole community come together is a truly wholesome experience. The smell of pines, earth, and cinnamon will all blend together to put you in Christmas mode. Revel in it!
- Buying a tree from these farms supports family-owned local businesses. It is also good for the economy and the environment.
- Your self-help tree will last longer and will retain its freshness. You are sure to have a fragrant and green Christmas!
The Research
Ensure that you do ample research before buying the Christmas tree. Make a list of all appropriate tree farms near you. Decide if you want a fir or spruce. Different species give different Christmas scents. This will help you organize your financial resources for the purchase. Involve the kids in picking out the best option. It is recommended that you have a rough idea of the type, size, and cost of the Christmas tree. You can select the tree farms based on this information. Many farms have potted options if you are interested in replanting the tree. Ideally, you should look for a 5’ to 9’ tree with soft needles. The tree must be full, as patches and bald spots don’t look good with Christmas ornaments.
Do the Prep
Get group consensus before deciding on a tree and cutting it. If you cut down the wrong tree, you will have to pay for it. Take careful measurements and remember the dimensions of your house. Keep in mind that trees look a lot smaller in the open environment. So, plan accordingly and smartly. Walk around the farm at least twice before making a final decision.
Be prepared and get all your tools in place. An accurate tape measure, a handy saw or a strong ax, and gloves are essential for Christmas tree adventures.
A strong axe is a better option as it takes less time. You should also have a means of transport for the tree. If you don’t have a truck, then the car roof is a suitable possibility. Ropes and cords are also necessary to fasten the tree securely. Select only the tools you are quite familiar with. Nobody wants an injury at Christmas!
Cut the Tree
Cut the tree a foot longer than needed. This will help to save length for trimming and pruning. Remove everything from the tree’s fall path. It is optimal that the initial cut is made close to the ground. This way, a new tree can sprout out of the trunk. Go slow and be forceful. Don’t make shallow cuts. If the tree starts to lean over, don’t push it to the ground. This may cause the bark to splinter and bruise. Shake the tree after it falls on the ground. This will remove any wildlife or insects living on it. Carry the tree to your car and secure it with ropes.
Christmas Tree Care
Cut an inch off the trunk to expose the fresher surface. Put the tree in room temperature water and semi-heated space for integration. It is recommended that you make an inch-wide incision on the trunk for better water absorption. Keep the water level above the cut, or you’ll have to make a new one. Keep the tree planted in a water reservoir with at least a gallon of water and away from direct heat sources.
Trim the tree and clean the branches before decorating. Ensure that the Christmas tree is planted safely before hanging ornaments on it. You can also use additional cords to keep it upright and fastened. Use the whole family’s creativity while decorating. Make the ornaments yourself and enjoy the season to the fullest.
Your tree will also keep you company after Christmas. A well-watered tree will last up to 5 weeks. Remove the needles and the dried trunk before they turn into a fire hazard. Discard the leftovers responsibly.
Do you have another DIY project for this Christmas? Is it sustainable and affordable? We’d love to know more about our
swordsswords Christmas Extravaganza. Happy Holidays!
