From: Robert & Tracy
Sent: Sunday, December 17, 2006 3:48 PM
Subject: smelly tree water
Just a quick question about tree water. Unfortunately although we cut off about an inch of our trunk on the Douglas Fir we purchased two weeks ago, it absorbed virtually no water. Now, the water is beginning to smell foul and just curious if you have any suggestions for any water additives to get rid of the smell. The tree is 9' tall and too difficult to pick up and take outside to dump out the water, so we were hoping to pour pine-sol or bleach or something else in the stand knowing the tree is already drying up and absorbing any water. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Answer: Unusual that it didn't take up water...must be something else going on with that particular tree. I'm sorry you're not enjoying it as much as you should.
Bleach, although very diluted, is still hydrochloric acid, not good for plant tissue. I would recommend some fresh water with dissolved baking soda.
From: ROBERT MCGLOTHLIN
Sent: Sunday, December 17, 2006 12:09 AM
Subject: christmas tree safety
I grew up with cedar trees as the christmas tree. Are they more dangerous than pine?
Answer: dangerous in what way? There are many varieties of cedar grown and harvested as Christmas Trees (deadora, eastern red, etc).
From: Tish Pasiewicz
Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 10:32 AM
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
I don't know why the water in my tree stand has turned stinky. We have had fresh trees for years with no problems. I want to remove the water and add fresh water. Is there anything I can add to the water to help with crud on the trunk and sides of the receptacle that may still be stinky? Someone suggested 1/4 cup bleach but that just seems like a bad idea to me!! Thanks.
Answer: That is a bad idea. Bleach, although very diluted, is still hydrochloric acid, not good for plant tissue. It's very odd, but we've had a number of "the water in my stand smells bad" emails this year. You can remove the water quickly with a shop vac (small attachment) or a turkey baster or some kind of siphon system (have you ever had a water bed and had to drain one when moving?).
From: Nancy
Sent: Sunday, December 17, 2006 10:44 AM
Subject: National Christmas tree Assoc. on CBS
Congrats on the CBS Morning show (my favorite show) plug for the National Christmas Tree Assoc. last Sunday. It spoke about the trend of real trees coming back. I got a real tree this year in my new house. Love it! Hey, my brother told me that he saw something about using boiling water to water the tree. Do you know anything about that?
Answer: I didn't even know about the CBS show, but someone else mentioned it too...I'll have to find the clip.
Water temp in the stand does not have an impact on a tree's ability to absorb water, so I would just use plain tap water. I suppose the theory behind using boiling hot water is it can soften and disperse any sap or resin on the cut surface of the trunk. And while that may be true, sap is not the culprit of inhibiting a tree's ability to absorb water, air is.
From: Gary Mooney
Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006
Subject: South West Tennessee
I am looking at planting an acre of Christmas trees in south west Tennessee. I like the fir trees but want something that will grow rapidly in our area, so I am considering Virginia pines instead. Please comment?????????
Answer: Many good books and guides have been published, a library or Amazon.com search should yield plenty. In addition, growing trees varies a great deal, depending on your climate, soil, terrain and what kind of tree species you're interested in growing. We recommend that you contact a county extension agent and the state association closest to you.
From: Mike Vovaris
Sent: Saturday, December 16, 2006 11:52 AM
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
My tree stopped taking in water and is drying out. It was a fresh cut on the weekend of Thanksgiving. I have kept up with the watering (adding sugar) making sure it did not go below the base of the tree. What can I do? Take the tree down and make a fresh cut? Any help or suggestions would be great.
Answer: It's completely typical for the rate of water absorption to fluctuate. So just because it hasn't taken up more water recently is not in itself a bad sign. If the cut surface has always been in water and not exposed to air then no re-cut is needed and wouldn't improve it's water uptake. Of course, sooner or later all cut trees will completely stop taking up water. How soon this happens depends on a many things, including the individual tree itself. Time ranges can be 3 weeks to 3 months in some cases.
My suggestion would be to stay the course. You don't need to add sugar to the water...that does NOTHING for the tree and could lead to a build up of bacteria in the water causing a bad odor.
From: Joe Mims
Sent: Saturday, December 16, 2006 10:13 AM
Subject: no smell
I write to you because I don’t know where my trees came from, one was from a tree lot, the other Target. We brought 2 firs home and to our great disappointment found they had almost no smell to them.
We might as well have bought artificial. Is this due to biological engineering or just a fluke of the past growing season? Because, if it’s the former I will be investing in artificial trees.
Answer: I'm not sure what you mean by "biological engineering", but there's no way a nursery could pollinate and germinate a new seedling and eliminate the tree's aroma. Even if it was possible, nobody in the nursery or Christmas Tree business would want to. The aroma which people sense/smell comes from the liquid pitch and resin portion of the tree.
You don't say which particular species you have, and some species generally produce more aroma than others. But one of the problems in talking about aroma is there is not a definitive scale for it. The sense of smell is different for every person and people simply don't smell (vb) things the same way. In other words, a tree that has a "strong aroma" to me, might not to someone else, and vice versa. I know that sounds like a lot of mumbo jumbo.
Here are the things I can tell you for sure. A tree will smell stronger the more moisture it has, which is another important reason to make sure to make a fresh cut off the base and keep the cut surface in water at all times. The more water a tree absorbs, the stronger it will smell. Also, the needles contain the most moisture and aroma potential. If you pick some needles off a branch and rip them in half or crush them, you will get the biggest "whiff".
From: Jessica Smith
Sent: Saturday, December 16, 2006 2:42 AM
Subject: scholarship eligibility
I wanted to apply for the Christmas tree scholarship, but the tree I want to submit is not from my home. It was part of a project I was involved in, which I would like to share. Am I still eligible?
Answer: As long as it's a farm-grown Christmas Tree, that's fine.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
The "Holiday" Tree?
As we get closer to Christmas Tree season, I’m reminded of a topic that became – in my opinion – over-hyped last year. Namely, is it inappropriate to use the term Christmas Tree?
We received many inquiries from journalists on this topic. Did we have a stance? I usually responded the same as the association spokespersons with something along the lines of “ultimately, as long as people buy a farm-grown real tree and not a fake, plastic tree, we don’t care what people call it.” It was usually followed with “However, this association will never change it’s name to the National Holiday Tree Association.” This was usually met with chuckles.
So, curious, we added a question to the consumer poll we commission each year. In January, 2006, a weighted random sample of the U.S. general adult population were asked, “In your own opinion, which name do you think is more appropriate to use?” 97% replied “Christmas Tree” while only 3% replied “Holiday Tree.”
Hmmmm....yep, seems like an over-hyped non-issue to me.
People often ask us if we can help them find a “home for the holidays” for a large evergreen tree in their yard.
From: Pamela
Sent: Sunday, July 23, 2006
Subject: Save our Tree
We have a northern white pine that is approximately 25 feet tall. We are afraid that this may be the last year to save it due to it growing into the power lines. Can you help find someone who would take it as a Christmas tree? We would ask that they remove it with minimal damage. I have attached a picture.
Answer: Sorry, there's nothing really we can do to help in that situation. Your best bet may be to contact local businesses in your area that typically put up a large Christmas Tree each year (malls, office buildings, churches) and ask them if they would want to use it. Or, perhaps call a tree farm and see if they have a request for such a large tree.
Harvesting will begin in a few weeks. If any visitors have questions about the harvesting process, write an email and we’ll post some interesting ones.
We received many inquiries from journalists on this topic. Did we have a stance? I usually responded the same as the association spokespersons with something along the lines of “ultimately, as long as people buy a farm-grown real tree and not a fake, plastic tree, we don’t care what people call it.” It was usually followed with “However, this association will never change it’s name to the National Holiday Tree Association.” This was usually met with chuckles.
So, curious, we added a question to the consumer poll we commission each year. In January, 2006, a weighted random sample of the U.S. general adult population were asked, “In your own opinion, which name do you think is more appropriate to use?” 97% replied “Christmas Tree” while only 3% replied “Holiday Tree.”
Hmmmm....yep, seems like an over-hyped non-issue to me.
People often ask us if we can help them find a “home for the holidays” for a large evergreen tree in their yard.
From: Pamela
Sent: Sunday, July 23, 2006
Subject: Save our Tree
We have a northern white pine that is approximately 25 feet tall. We are afraid that this may be the last year to save it due to it growing into the power lines. Can you help find someone who would take it as a Christmas tree? We would ask that they remove it with minimal damage. I have attached a picture.
Answer: Sorry, there's nothing really we can do to help in that situation. Your best bet may be to contact local businesses in your area that typically put up a large Christmas Tree each year (malls, office buildings, churches) and ask them if they would want to use it. Or, perhaps call a tree farm and see if they have a request for such a large tree.
Harvesting will begin in a few weeks. If any visitors have questions about the harvesting process, write an email and we’ll post some interesting ones.
Friday, December 15, 2006
A Thank-You & More Questions
We’ve posted several descriptions and accounts of the Trees for Troops program. Today, we thought we’d share some of the feedback we receive from the families who get those trees. It’s easy to stay motivated when you read stuff like this. This was posted on the comments board at the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation site. More -->
I went with my husband Charles to Ft. Gordon , Ga. to renew my I.D. card and found out they were giving away Christmas Trees to anyone with a retired military card after all the active troops had gotten theirs (what a nice thing for them to do). We have always had an artificial tree after Charles retired from the military after serving 23 years in the Navy that was one way we could save money after retirement . We brought it home with us thinking wow, we got a real one this year, but to our amazement we found a woman we knew with a 5 year old son that didn’t have the money for a tree for her son. You know something, that old artificial tree looks good this year in our home and the real one we got from Fed-Ex looks better thru the eyes of a 5 year old in his home , we put it up while he was asleep and I took over some ornaments and lights I had left over and with the ones he and his Mother made. That tree Fed-Ex made possible for him is the most beautiful tree in the world to us . Just letting you know how one 5 year old boy will enjoy his Christmas. We also want to let you guys know how much we appreciate , love and pray for your safety as you go about your duties in the service. HOW BRAVE We love you all!!!!!!! Ann
From: Sara Langan
Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Subject: why won't branches of fraser fir fall?
I'm pretty positive the stem never dried out after it was cut just before we brought it home four days ago, why haven't the bottom branches lowered at all?
Answer: The Fraser has pretty sturdy branches, especially those on the lower whorls which are oldest. I'm not sure I understand what you mean by "falling" but they shouldn't droop at all. Other species will have less stiff branches which will "droop", meaning they will bend downward.
From: Di Gregorio, Sylvia
Sent: Friday, December 15, 2006
Subject: FAQ Addition
Is a tree excessively dry if the needles come off easily (running your hand on the branch) even thought it is green & the bark is smooth? Is it normal for trees to lose needles while they are getting acclimated to the indoor temperature? Will warm water make a tree lose needles?
Answer: No, it's not normal for a tree to lose the outer green needles easily unless it is very dried out or some species can become very brittle if exposed to very cold temperatures. Once in the home, if a fresh cut has been made off the stump and put in water within 4-6 hours, the tree will begin to come out of dormancy and take up water. Water temp in the stand will not impact the tree's ability to take up water.
From: Jill Hovey
Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Subject: Christmas trees gone swimming
My friend was told to put his Christmas tree in the swimming pool. He was told that it would add life to the tree and that fewer needles would fall off in his house. I have never heard of this? Can you tell me if this is a good idea?
Answer: I don't think that's a good idea for either the tree or the pool. I assume you live in a southern area where they still have water in pools? The only effective way to help a tree maintain a high moisture content and hold needles longer is to make a fresh cut off the base and keep it in water. Putting a tree's branches in pool water, or any kind of water, does not help it hold needles longer.
From: Jamie
Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Subject: Scent
Love live Christmas trees but one of those people overly sensitive to strong scents. I came across a beautiful Christmas tree displayed by a grower at a recent fair in Jacksonville, Fla. and at first thought it was artificial because it did not have a scent. I was told by the person attending the tree that the grower had sprayed his trees with something that neutralized the scent. She did not know what he used. Would you know what the grower may have done to neutralize the scent?
Answer: Sprayed something to neutralize the scent???? Never heard of such a thing. I think the person in the booth was misinformed. Most likely the tree was a Leyland Cypress, which like some other species produces very little aroma. http://www.christmastree.org/common.cfm
From: Harry
Sent: Friday, December 15, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
Concerning the comment of a smell coming from the Christmas tree other than the fresh smell of pine. I have had a similar problem with spruce trees that I have planted in my own Christmas tree lot. Once cut and set up inside, the room begins to seem like sulfur or rotten eggs. Upon investigation the smell appears to be coming from the tips of the branches. I think it is a result of our very hard water. I give trees away to family and friends and they don't seem to have the problem with their trees from the same lot.
Answer: If it is a white spruce, it can be the tree. When crushed, needles have a disagreeable odor, thus, the common name of "skunk spruce" or "cat spruce" is often used by those familiar with the species. Although, it's not a real common species. I don't think anything in the water absorbed by the tree can change it's chemical composition and affect the odor released by the tree's resin. In most cases where people have written in about something smelling bad, it's usually the foul water in the stand itself.
But, your point is well taken in that we never know for sure what's going on exactly when someone says their tree smells bad.
From: Lee Naue
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
The place where we bought our Douglas fir Christmas Tree said to put a can of 7 up in the water. Is this a good idea?
Answer: NO, that's not a good idea. I'm sorry you were told that. Plain tap water is best. http://www.christmastree.org/care.cfm
From: Julie McCay Turner
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
I'd like to find an old-fashioned Christmas tree, one that has air between the branches so the ornaments actually hang down. "Back in the day" these were inexpensive sale lot trees, and pretty unattractive. But I'm hopeful that someone's breeding something similar with a nicer shape and sturdier branches.
Any hope of finding a small (4 ft) example anywhere in the Boston area???
Answer: The sparse look is dependent somewhat upon the genetics of the tree, but mostly through the shearing practices of the grower more so than species. The more open, less dense look is starting to become more popular among consumers, so the Christmas Tree farmers will be working to meet that demand, however the average tree takes 7 to 10 years to get to 6 or 7 feet high and the majority of consumers still want a full, thick tree. Check with farms in your area and ask them if they have a "less sheared" tree or one that "would be graded a cull". The grower will understand the what you are looking for. To find someone near Boston, use the ZIP Code search tool from our front page.
From: Julie McCay Turner
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Re: Blog Talk Ideas
Thank you for your prompt response -- can you point me in the direction of the types of trees that are apt to be spindliest?
Answer: By "type" I assume you mean "species"...as mentioned earlier, it doesn't matter so much which species. In other words, there are many species that can be sheared open. Ask the farm or lot to show you the more open, less sheared trees.
From: Ginther, Jon
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Minnesota tree
We put a Cannan Fur in our home last Saturday (12/9). A fresh cut was made at the nursery and within 15-minutes, the tree was home and going into the stand. With a false ceiling downstairs, we had to cut another inch off the end of the tree. We got the tree in the stand and let the branches fall from the net wrap as put on the tree at the nursery.
Since Sunday, the tree is barely drinking in water and I'm concern of any dangers this might pose. I am able to 'wrap' the smaller branches around my finger without the branch snapping, in fact the branch still feels somewhat 'rubbery'. What actions, if any, should I take?
Answer: It's completely typical for the rate of water absorption to fluctuate. For example, I put my tree up this past Friday evening and it absorbed almost no water at all until Monday. When I got home Monday night it had soaked up almost a gallon that day, by Tuesday morning another half gallon, and hardly any since. This is normal.
Did you make a fresh cut before putting in the stand? Did it take up water initially? Has the water level never dropped below the cut surface? If so, don't fret.
I went with my husband Charles to Ft. Gordon , Ga. to renew my I.D. card and found out they were giving away Christmas Trees to anyone with a retired military card after all the active troops had gotten theirs (what a nice thing for them to do). We have always had an artificial tree after Charles retired from the military after serving 23 years in the Navy that was one way we could save money after retirement . We brought it home with us thinking wow, we got a real one this year, but to our amazement we found a woman we knew with a 5 year old son that didn’t have the money for a tree for her son. You know something, that old artificial tree looks good this year in our home and the real one we got from Fed-Ex looks better thru the eyes of a 5 year old in his home , we put it up while he was asleep and I took over some ornaments and lights I had left over and with the ones he and his Mother made. That tree Fed-Ex made possible for him is the most beautiful tree in the world to us . Just letting you know how one 5 year old boy will enjoy his Christmas. We also want to let you guys know how much we appreciate , love and pray for your safety as you go about your duties in the service. HOW BRAVE We love you all!!!!!!! Ann
From: Sara Langan
Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Subject: why won't branches of fraser fir fall?
I'm pretty positive the stem never dried out after it was cut just before we brought it home four days ago, why haven't the bottom branches lowered at all?
Answer: The Fraser has pretty sturdy branches, especially those on the lower whorls which are oldest. I'm not sure I understand what you mean by "falling" but they shouldn't droop at all. Other species will have less stiff branches which will "droop", meaning they will bend downward.
From: Di Gregorio, Sylvia
Sent: Friday, December 15, 2006
Subject: FAQ Addition
Is a tree excessively dry if the needles come off easily (running your hand on the branch) even thought it is green & the bark is smooth? Is it normal for trees to lose needles while they are getting acclimated to the indoor temperature? Will warm water make a tree lose needles?
Answer: No, it's not normal for a tree to lose the outer green needles easily unless it is very dried out or some species can become very brittle if exposed to very cold temperatures. Once in the home, if a fresh cut has been made off the stump and put in water within 4-6 hours, the tree will begin to come out of dormancy and take up water. Water temp in the stand will not impact the tree's ability to take up water.
From: Jill Hovey
Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Subject: Christmas trees gone swimming
My friend was told to put his Christmas tree in the swimming pool. He was told that it would add life to the tree and that fewer needles would fall off in his house. I have never heard of this? Can you tell me if this is a good idea?
Answer: I don't think that's a good idea for either the tree or the pool. I assume you live in a southern area where they still have water in pools? The only effective way to help a tree maintain a high moisture content and hold needles longer is to make a fresh cut off the base and keep it in water. Putting a tree's branches in pool water, or any kind of water, does not help it hold needles longer.
From: Jamie
Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Subject: Scent
Love live Christmas trees but one of those people overly sensitive to strong scents. I came across a beautiful Christmas tree displayed by a grower at a recent fair in Jacksonville, Fla. and at first thought it was artificial because it did not have a scent. I was told by the person attending the tree that the grower had sprayed his trees with something that neutralized the scent. She did not know what he used. Would you know what the grower may have done to neutralize the scent?
Answer: Sprayed something to neutralize the scent???? Never heard of such a thing. I think the person in the booth was misinformed. Most likely the tree was a Leyland Cypress, which like some other species produces very little aroma. http://www.christmastree.org/common.cfm
From: Harry
Sent: Friday, December 15, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
Concerning the comment of a smell coming from the Christmas tree other than the fresh smell of pine. I have had a similar problem with spruce trees that I have planted in my own Christmas tree lot. Once cut and set up inside, the room begins to seem like sulfur or rotten eggs. Upon investigation the smell appears to be coming from the tips of the branches. I think it is a result of our very hard water. I give trees away to family and friends and they don't seem to have the problem with their trees from the same lot.
Answer: If it is a white spruce, it can be the tree. When crushed, needles have a disagreeable odor, thus, the common name of "skunk spruce" or "cat spruce" is often used by those familiar with the species. Although, it's not a real common species. I don't think anything in the water absorbed by the tree can change it's chemical composition and affect the odor released by the tree's resin. In most cases where people have written in about something smelling bad, it's usually the foul water in the stand itself.
But, your point is well taken in that we never know for sure what's going on exactly when someone says their tree smells bad.
From: Lee Naue
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
The place where we bought our Douglas fir Christmas Tree said to put a can of 7 up in the water. Is this a good idea?
Answer: NO, that's not a good idea. I'm sorry you were told that. Plain tap water is best. http://www.christmastree.org/care.cfm
From: Julie McCay Turner
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
I'd like to find an old-fashioned Christmas tree, one that has air between the branches so the ornaments actually hang down. "Back in the day" these were inexpensive sale lot trees, and pretty unattractive. But I'm hopeful that someone's breeding something similar with a nicer shape and sturdier branches.
Any hope of finding a small (4 ft) example anywhere in the Boston area???
Answer: The sparse look is dependent somewhat upon the genetics of the tree, but mostly through the shearing practices of the grower more so than species. The more open, less dense look is starting to become more popular among consumers, so the Christmas Tree farmers will be working to meet that demand, however the average tree takes 7 to 10 years to get to 6 or 7 feet high and the majority of consumers still want a full, thick tree. Check with farms in your area and ask them if they have a "less sheared" tree or one that "would be graded a cull". The grower will understand the what you are looking for. To find someone near Boston, use the ZIP Code search tool from our front page.
From: Julie McCay Turner
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Re: Blog Talk Ideas
Thank you for your prompt response -- can you point me in the direction of the types of trees that are apt to be spindliest?
Answer: By "type" I assume you mean "species"...as mentioned earlier, it doesn't matter so much which species. In other words, there are many species that can be sheared open. Ask the farm or lot to show you the more open, less sheared trees.
From: Ginther, Jon
Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2006
Subject: Minnesota tree
We put a Cannan Fur in our home last Saturday (12/9). A fresh cut was made at the nursery and within 15-minutes, the tree was home and going into the stand. With a false ceiling downstairs, we had to cut another inch off the end of the tree. We got the tree in the stand and let the branches fall from the net wrap as put on the tree at the nursery.
Since Sunday, the tree is barely drinking in water and I'm concern of any dangers this might pose. I am able to 'wrap' the smaller branches around my finger without the branch snapping, in fact the branch still feels somewhat 'rubbery'. What actions, if any, should I take?
Answer: It's completely typical for the rate of water absorption to fluctuate. For example, I put my tree up this past Friday evening and it absorbed almost no water at all until Monday. When I got home Monday night it had soaked up almost a gallon that day, by Tuesday morning another half gallon, and hardly any since. This is normal.
Did you make a fresh cut before putting in the stand? Did it take up water initially? Has the water level never dropped below the cut surface? If so, don't fret.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Smells, Sprays & Trimming - Oh My!
From: Chris Kunkle
Sent: Sunday, December 10, 2006
Subject: YUK! Fish smell from my Christmas tree!
I swear there is a fish smell coming from my fresh-cut Christmas tree. The same thing happened in 2003. I never figured it out back then so I ultimately assumed I was just really sensitive to smells given I was a month pregnant. Oddly enough I'm pregnant again - this time 3 months along - but I swear it isn't the pregnancy. My husband tells me he smells it too!
I'm guessing now that it's the water, but what did I do wrong? Maybe I should have waited till the tree stand's water was all gone before adding more water? I'd love to avoid this nasty situation in the future so any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance for any help that can be provided.
Answer: Wow. Each year, the number of "first" Email questions gets fewer and fewer. Yours is the first "first" of this year. We've never been asked about trees smelling like fish, or the smell possibly being linked to pregnancy.
I'm not an expert on things that make water smell like fish, nor certainly am I an expert on pregnancy. Occasionally people tell us their tree's water smells like rotten eggs. This is typically traced to things they put in the tree's water. Any organic compound can break down and Nitrogen combined with 4 Hydrogen molecules makes ammonia, which smells like rotten eggs.
Let me ask, did you put anything in the tree's water? Was the stand cleaned out before putting the tree and water in? If you suspect something in the water has gone fowl, don't wait until the stand is empty. Use a shop vac with a small attachment or a turkey baster to remove it soon, and replace with clean, fresh water. You can dissolve a little baking soda in the water if you'd like, but avoid harsh acidic fluids and chemicals such as bleach.
From: Joe Sandoval
Sent: Monday, December 11, 2006
Subject: RE: Christmas tree care
Is it bad to get a spray bottle and spray the Christmas tree, douglas fur, directly with water on it's needles? Rumor has it this dries the tree out faster. is this true? also if it is ok to spray the tree directly on the needles how often should you do it?
Answer: True...not good for the tree. A tree loses moisture through water molecules evaporating through the needles. If water is present on the needles and evaporates into the air, it can speed up this process. Just keep the stand filled with water so the tree can absorb water naturally, by drawing it up through the tissue in the cambium layer. It does not absorb water through the needles.
From: TIMOTHY MORSEY
Sent: Sunday, December 10, 2006
Subject: Cutting the top
Can I trim the top off of my tree? It's a Fraser fir.
Answer: you can if you want...it won't hurt the tree.
Sent: Sunday, December 10, 2006
Subject: YUK! Fish smell from my Christmas tree!
I swear there is a fish smell coming from my fresh-cut Christmas tree. The same thing happened in 2003. I never figured it out back then so I ultimately assumed I was just really sensitive to smells given I was a month pregnant. Oddly enough I'm pregnant again - this time 3 months along - but I swear it isn't the pregnancy. My husband tells me he smells it too!
I'm guessing now that it's the water, but what did I do wrong? Maybe I should have waited till the tree stand's water was all gone before adding more water? I'd love to avoid this nasty situation in the future so any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance for any help that can be provided.
Answer: Wow. Each year, the number of "first" Email questions gets fewer and fewer. Yours is the first "first" of this year. We've never been asked about trees smelling like fish, or the smell possibly being linked to pregnancy.
I'm not an expert on things that make water smell like fish, nor certainly am I an expert on pregnancy. Occasionally people tell us their tree's water smells like rotten eggs. This is typically traced to things they put in the tree's water. Any organic compound can break down and Nitrogen combined with 4 Hydrogen molecules makes ammonia, which smells like rotten eggs.
Let me ask, did you put anything in the tree's water? Was the stand cleaned out before putting the tree and water in? If you suspect something in the water has gone fowl, don't wait until the stand is empty. Use a shop vac with a small attachment or a turkey baster to remove it soon, and replace with clean, fresh water. You can dissolve a little baking soda in the water if you'd like, but avoid harsh acidic fluids and chemicals such as bleach.
From: Joe Sandoval
Sent: Monday, December 11, 2006
Subject: RE: Christmas tree care
Is it bad to get a spray bottle and spray the Christmas tree, douglas fur, directly with water on it's needles? Rumor has it this dries the tree out faster. is this true? also if it is ok to spray the tree directly on the needles how often should you do it?
Answer: True...not good for the tree. A tree loses moisture through water molecules evaporating through the needles. If water is present on the needles and evaporates into the air, it can speed up this process. Just keep the stand filled with water so the tree can absorb water naturally, by drawing it up through the tissue in the cambium layer. It does not absorb water through the needles.
From: TIMOTHY MORSEY
Sent: Sunday, December 10, 2006
Subject: Cutting the top
Can I trim the top off of my tree? It's a Fraser fir.
Answer: you can if you want...it won't hurt the tree.
Friday, December 8, 2006
Trees for Troops - Live from the Field
Blog entry submitted by Nicole Kellogg of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation staff who has coordinated most of the tree donations and deliveries.
After traveling from coast to coast my Trees for Troops trip is nearing an end. Tomorrow I will be at Fort Gordon while soldiers unload 759 trees for families to collect as soon as they come off the FedEx truck. I have no doubt the trees will be received with as much gratitude and joy as they have been everywhere else.
My trip began with a four night stay in Puyallup, WA for the Victorian Country Christmas Festival. While selling 150 trees to send to Fort Stewart I had numerous people purchase a tree who had a son, brother, uncle, cousin, husband or wife serving overseas in Iraq or Afghanistan. One little girl came up with her dad to provide a donation. The dad said "tell her where Mommy is." The little girl said, "Mommy's in Fffganistan." Break your heart, but thankfully Mommy will be home in January.
Another gentleman and his wife described a Christmas when they were stationed in Germany where he only had $1.00 left in his wallet. Trees were three franks (about $1.50), but they were able to talk the man selling the trees down to $1.00. He also said that at Christmas so many people from the base came to visit and provide gifts. He said we don't understand what a difference we are making in the lives of so many.
If you've never been to Big John's Christmas Trees in Atlanta, I highly suggest you stop by for a visit. Not only do they have any tree you could possibly want, but you will leave with your side hurting from laughing so hard. The staff at Big John's comes from across the country to work for the season. While not handling Fraser firs, in the off-season they can be found kayaking or spending time writing in Costa Rica. Bobbi and crew did a great job promoting the consumer donation program for Trees for Troops, where they sold 373 trees, 73 more than expected!
From Atlanta I headed to Columbus, GA for a visit to Fort Benning. They had about two squads of soldiers on hand to unload the trees. Two families collected their trees and spoke with the media. One family did not have a Christmas tree last year as they had just moved to the area during Christmas time, and were busy unpacking. They were very happy and excited to be picking up their tree this year.
Wednesday I helped Georgia Christmas Tree farmers, Greg and Cecil, load 70 trees at Greenbriar Creek farm in Bishop, GA. Beautiful Leyland Cyprus' were loaded on to the truck and are now on their way to Camp Lejeune, NC. As Greg said in an e-mail, " ...a worthy cause glad we in the Georgia Christmas Tree Association could help...the least we can do for what these men and women do for us." I'm sure we all second that statement.
This morning I visited Fort Stewart, GA where soldiers from the Boss program (Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers) unloaded 529 trees. The ladies in the group had no problem hauling some of the bigger trees off of the truck. After they were finished they all agreed that they had just done two weeks worth of P.T.
I have had such a great time working on the Trees for Troops program. I have met so many wonderful people on this trip and working with the program. I am excited to get home to continue celebrating Christmas with my friends and family. To all of the military men and women and their families serving in our country and overseas I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for all you do.
After traveling from coast to coast my Trees for Troops trip is nearing an end. Tomorrow I will be at Fort Gordon while soldiers unload 759 trees for families to collect as soon as they come off the FedEx truck. I have no doubt the trees will be received with as much gratitude and joy as they have been everywhere else.
My trip began with a four night stay in Puyallup, WA for the Victorian Country Christmas Festival. While selling 150 trees to send to Fort Stewart I had numerous people purchase a tree who had a son, brother, uncle, cousin, husband or wife serving overseas in Iraq or Afghanistan. One little girl came up with her dad to provide a donation. The dad said "tell her where Mommy is." The little girl said, "Mommy's in Fffganistan." Break your heart, but thankfully Mommy will be home in January.
Another gentleman and his wife described a Christmas when they were stationed in Germany where he only had $1.00 left in his wallet. Trees were three franks (about $1.50), but they were able to talk the man selling the trees down to $1.00. He also said that at Christmas so many people from the base came to visit and provide gifts. He said we don't understand what a difference we are making in the lives of so many.
If you've never been to Big John's Christmas Trees in Atlanta, I highly suggest you stop by for a visit. Not only do they have any tree you could possibly want, but you will leave with your side hurting from laughing so hard. The staff at Big John's comes from across the country to work for the season. While not handling Fraser firs, in the off-season they can be found kayaking or spending time writing in Costa Rica. Bobbi and crew did a great job promoting the consumer donation program for Trees for Troops, where they sold 373 trees, 73 more than expected!
From Atlanta I headed to Columbus, GA for a visit to Fort Benning. They had about two squads of soldiers on hand to unload the trees. Two families collected their trees and spoke with the media. One family did not have a Christmas tree last year as they had just moved to the area during Christmas time, and were busy unpacking. They were very happy and excited to be picking up their tree this year.
Wednesday I helped Georgia Christmas Tree farmers, Greg and Cecil, load 70 trees at Greenbriar Creek farm in Bishop, GA. Beautiful Leyland Cyprus' were loaded on to the truck and are now on their way to Camp Lejeune, NC. As Greg said in an e-mail, " ...a worthy cause glad we in the Georgia Christmas Tree Association could help...the least we can do for what these men and women do for us." I'm sure we all second that statement.
This morning I visited Fort Stewart, GA where soldiers from the Boss program (Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers) unloaded 529 trees. The ladies in the group had no problem hauling some of the bigger trees off of the truck. After they were finished they all agreed that they had just done two weeks worth of P.T.
I have had such a great time working on the Trees for Troops program. I have met so many wonderful people on this trip and working with the program. I am excited to get home to continue celebrating Christmas with my friends and family. To all of the military men and women and their families serving in our country and overseas I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for all you do.
Trees for Troops - Live from the Field
Blog entry submitted by Nicole Kellogg of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation staff who has coordinated most of the tree donations and deliveries.
After traveling from coast to coast my Trees for Troops trip is nearing an end. Tomorrow I will be at Fort Gordon while soldiers unload 759 trees for families to collect as soon as they come off the FedEx truck. I have no doubt the trees will be received with as much gratitude and joy as they have been everywhere else.
My trip began with a four night stay in Puyallup, WA for the Victorian Country Christmas Festival. While selling 150 trees to send to Fort Stewart I had numerous people purchase a tree who had a son, brother, uncle, cousin, husband or wife serving overseas in Iraq or Afghanistan. One little girl came up with her dad to provide a donation. The dad said "tell her where Mommy is." The little girl said, "Mommy's in Fffganistan." Break your heart, but thankfully Mommy will be home in January.
Another gentleman and his wife described a Christmas when they were stationed in Germany where he only had $1.00 left in his wallet. Trees were three franks (about $1.50), but they were able to talk the man selling the trees down to $1.00. He also said that at Christmas so many people from the base came to visit and provide gifts. He said we don't understand what a difference we are making in the lives of so many.
If you've never been to Big John's Christmas Trees in Atlanta, I highly suggest you stop by for a visit. Not only do they have any tree you could possibly want, but you will leave with your side hurting from laughing so hard. The staff at Big John's comes from across the country to work for the season. While not handling Fraser firs, in the off-season they can be found kayaking or spending time writing in Costa Rica. Bobbi and crew did a great job promoting the consumer donation program for Trees for Troops, where they sold 373 trees, 73 more than expected!
From Atlanta I headed to Columbus, GA for a visit to Fort Benning. They had about two squads of soldiers on hand to unload the trees. Two families collected their trees and spoke with the media. One family did not have a Christmas tree last year as they had just moved to the area during Christmas time, and were busy unpacking. They were very happy and excited to be picking up their tree this year.
Wednesday I helped Georgia Christmas Tree farmers, Greg and Cecil, load 70 trees at Greenbriar Creek farm in Bishop, GA. Beautiful Leyland Cyprus' were loaded on to the truck and are now on their way to Camp Lejeune, NC. As Greg said in an e-mail, " ...a worthy cause glad we in the Georgia Christmas Tree Association could help...the least we can do for what these men and women do for us." I'm sure we all second that statement.
This morning I visited Fort Stewart, GA where soldiers from the Boss program (Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers) unloaded 529 trees. The ladies in the group had no problem hauling some of the bigger trees off of the truck. After they were finished they all agreed that they had just done two weeks worth of P.T.
I have had such a great time working on the Trees for Troops program. I have met so many wonderful people on this trip and working with the program. I am excited to get home to continue celebrating Christmas with my friends and family. To all of the military men and women and their families serving in our country and overseas I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for all you do.
After traveling from coast to coast my Trees for Troops trip is nearing an end. Tomorrow I will be at Fort Gordon while soldiers unload 759 trees for families to collect as soon as they come off the FedEx truck. I have no doubt the trees will be received with as much gratitude and joy as they have been everywhere else.
My trip began with a four night stay in Puyallup, WA for the Victorian Country Christmas Festival. While selling 150 trees to send to Fort Stewart I had numerous people purchase a tree who had a son, brother, uncle, cousin, husband or wife serving overseas in Iraq or Afghanistan. One little girl came up with her dad to provide a donation. The dad said "tell her where Mommy is." The little girl said, "Mommy's in Fffganistan." Break your heart, but thankfully Mommy will be home in January.
Another gentleman and his wife described a Christmas when they were stationed in Germany where he only had $1.00 left in his wallet. Trees were three franks (about $1.50), but they were able to talk the man selling the trees down to $1.00. He also said that at Christmas so many people from the base came to visit and provide gifts. He said we don't understand what a difference we are making in the lives of so many.
If you've never been to Big John's Christmas Trees in Atlanta, I highly suggest you stop by for a visit. Not only do they have any tree you could possibly want, but you will leave with your side hurting from laughing so hard. The staff at Big John's comes from across the country to work for the season. While not handling Fraser firs, in the off-season they can be found kayaking or spending time writing in Costa Rica. Bobbi and crew did a great job promoting the consumer donation program for Trees for Troops, where they sold 373 trees, 73 more than expected!
From Atlanta I headed to Columbus, GA for a visit to Fort Benning. They had about two squads of soldiers on hand to unload the trees. Two families collected their trees and spoke with the media. One family did not have a Christmas tree last year as they had just moved to the area during Christmas time, and were busy unpacking. They were very happy and excited to be picking up their tree this year.
Wednesday I helped Georgia Christmas Tree farmers, Greg and Cecil, load 70 trees at Greenbriar Creek farm in Bishop, GA. Beautiful Leyland Cyprus' were loaded on to the truck and are now on their way to Camp Lejeune, NC. As Greg said in an e-mail, " ...a worthy cause glad we in the Georgia Christmas Tree Association could help...the least we can do for what these men and women do for us." I'm sure we all second that statement.
This morning I visited Fort Stewart, GA where soldiers from the Boss program (Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers) unloaded 529 trees. The ladies in the group had no problem hauling some of the bigger trees off of the truck. After they were finished they all agreed that they had just done two weeks worth of P.T.
I have had such a great time working on the Trees for Troops program. I have met so many wonderful people on this trip and working with the program. I am excited to get home to continue celebrating Christmas with my friends and family. To all of the military men and women and their families serving in our country and overseas I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for all you do.
Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Reader Q&A
From: Mary
Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006
To: info@realchristmastrees.org
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
How do I keep my tree fresh?
I bought a tree yesterday Nov. 26th at Armstrong Nursery ($99 deal includes a 5ft 6" Noble Tree, 6 foot garland, 1 (24) inch wreath, and 4 - Poinsettias). Good Yes?! I think so. The Tree is inside in water. What else can I do to keep it fresh? It has lost needles but lets face it you would too if someone cut you down from your cozy perch. I know this sounds dumb but what else can I do, ADD SUGAR, OR PEROXIDE, BLEACH, PLANT FOOD. NOTHING? RIGHT? I JUST HOPE IT LAST TIL CHRISTMAS .............Thanks Tree Growers
Answer: I can't tell you if that's a good deal or not. I know places where that kind of package would cost more and places it would cost less. Actually, I have no idea how much 4 poinsettias would cost.
You've done everything right. As long as they made a fresh cut for you at the lot and you got it in water within about 4 hours, never let the water level drop below the cut surface of the stump. It will continue to take up water 4-6 weeks. No need to add anything to the water. Read the complete care tips on our website @ http://www.christmastree.org/care.cfm.
From: Todd
Sent: Friday, December 01, 2006
Subject: About trimming the tree top
My wife and I have always heard that you absolutely should not cut or trim the top of the tree (i.e. where you'd put the star) because the tree will die faster and dry out very quickly.
Is this true, or is trimming the top the same as cutting any other branch?
Answer: That one's an urban myth, or at least a misunderstanding. A tree loses moisture through a process called transpiration. This means water molecules evaporate into the air through the foliage (needles). Snipping off the leader (top center stem) won't speed up moisture loss.
From: Sue
Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Idea
I purchased a 11 ft. real Christmas tree. The stump was so big this year we had to actually cut and carve out the tree stump in order for it to fit in our tree stand. The guy at the nursery that was selling the trees told us to do that. After the tree was up I filled the stand with warm water and added some of the tree preservative that I purchased at the nursery. I figured the tree would drink up the water fast since the carved bottom was all open and freshly cut. The next day I checked the water and the tree hardly drank any water. It has been a week and I still do not need to add water. I have not decorated the tree yet because I use a lot of lights (which dries out the tree). I figured I'd wait until two weeks before. Anyway, I am very concerned about the tree not drinking much water. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Answer: Well, you've got several things here to go over.
First, the good news. Your fear of lights drying out the tree are unfounded. Unless they are very old lights, modern mini lights emit very little heat, certainly not enough to speed up moisture loss from the tree.
Now, the bad news. Carving, trimming, cutting the stump to get it to fit into a stand is a bad idea. I wish the person who told you that wouldn't have. That can actually inhibit the tree's ability to move water up the stem.
Here's a brief explanation of the plant physiology. A tree moves water molecules up the stem through tissue in the cambium layer, just below the bark. That's why that part of the tree's trunk is softer and wetter than the denser wood in the middle. It works much like a siphon, as water molecules evaporate out of the foliage, more is drawn up from the trunk. When this part of the trunk is cut and/or removed, it inhibits the ability to draw water. In addition, as that part of the trunk is exposed to air, the air can stop the siphon action. Trimming off outer parts of the trunk exposes the cambium layer to air quicker than a flat, horizontal cut at the bottom.
My recommendation would be to make a clean, fresh cut from the bottom, above any of the trimmed off parts. I would also recommend investing in a new tree stand made for bigger trees. I put some links and descriptions of some stands made for large trees on this blog entry: http://www.christmastree.org/blog061118.cfm
From: Angela
Sent: Monday, December 04, 2006
Subject: FAQ Addition
I watered my new tree last night and today my house smells. Is it the stagnant water?? What can I do to make the smell go away? It is a musty smell.
Answer: Well, not knowing more details, it could be any number of things. Where was the stand stored last year? Was it cleaned out before? Was the skirt stored in a damp area (like a basement)? Sometimes things stored in basements can have that musty smell. I know my basement is like that because it's a renovated 150 year old building with original limestone foundation.
However, ruling those types of things out, if the tree was wet before bringing inside...from snow, rain...particularly if it's a dense tree with lots of branches and needles, it may still be damp. I would just give it time to dry out once opened up. Crush a few needles to release the evergreen aroma.
Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006
To: info@realchristmastrees.org
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
How do I keep my tree fresh?
I bought a tree yesterday Nov. 26th at Armstrong Nursery ($99 deal includes a 5ft 6" Noble Tree, 6 foot garland, 1 (24) inch wreath, and 4 - Poinsettias). Good Yes?! I think so. The Tree is inside in water. What else can I do to keep it fresh? It has lost needles but lets face it you would too if someone cut you down from your cozy perch. I know this sounds dumb but what else can I do, ADD SUGAR, OR PEROXIDE, BLEACH, PLANT FOOD. NOTHING? RIGHT? I JUST HOPE IT LAST TIL CHRISTMAS .............Thanks Tree Growers
Answer: I can't tell you if that's a good deal or not. I know places where that kind of package would cost more and places it would cost less. Actually, I have no idea how much 4 poinsettias would cost.
You've done everything right. As long as they made a fresh cut for you at the lot and you got it in water within about 4 hours, never let the water level drop below the cut surface of the stump. It will continue to take up water 4-6 weeks. No need to add anything to the water. Read the complete care tips on our website @ http://www.christmastree.org/care.cfm.
From: Todd
Sent: Friday, December 01, 2006
Subject: About trimming the tree top
My wife and I have always heard that you absolutely should not cut or trim the top of the tree (i.e. where you'd put the star) because the tree will die faster and dry out very quickly.
Is this true, or is trimming the top the same as cutting any other branch?
Answer: That one's an urban myth, or at least a misunderstanding. A tree loses moisture through a process called transpiration. This means water molecules evaporate into the air through the foliage (needles). Snipping off the leader (top center stem) won't speed up moisture loss.
From: Sue
Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Idea
I purchased a 11 ft. real Christmas tree. The stump was so big this year we had to actually cut and carve out the tree stump in order for it to fit in our tree stand. The guy at the nursery that was selling the trees told us to do that. After the tree was up I filled the stand with warm water and added some of the tree preservative that I purchased at the nursery. I figured the tree would drink up the water fast since the carved bottom was all open and freshly cut. The next day I checked the water and the tree hardly drank any water. It has been a week and I still do not need to add water. I have not decorated the tree yet because I use a lot of lights (which dries out the tree). I figured I'd wait until two weeks before. Anyway, I am very concerned about the tree not drinking much water. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Answer: Well, you've got several things here to go over.
First, the good news. Your fear of lights drying out the tree are unfounded. Unless they are very old lights, modern mini lights emit very little heat, certainly not enough to speed up moisture loss from the tree.
Now, the bad news. Carving, trimming, cutting the stump to get it to fit into a stand is a bad idea. I wish the person who told you that wouldn't have. That can actually inhibit the tree's ability to move water up the stem.
Here's a brief explanation of the plant physiology. A tree moves water molecules up the stem through tissue in the cambium layer, just below the bark. That's why that part of the tree's trunk is softer and wetter than the denser wood in the middle. It works much like a siphon, as water molecules evaporate out of the foliage, more is drawn up from the trunk. When this part of the trunk is cut and/or removed, it inhibits the ability to draw water. In addition, as that part of the trunk is exposed to air, the air can stop the siphon action. Trimming off outer parts of the trunk exposes the cambium layer to air quicker than a flat, horizontal cut at the bottom.
My recommendation would be to make a clean, fresh cut from the bottom, above any of the trimmed off parts. I would also recommend investing in a new tree stand made for bigger trees. I put some links and descriptions of some stands made for large trees on this blog entry: http://www.christmastree.org/blog061118.cfm
From: Angela
Sent: Monday, December 04, 2006
Subject: FAQ Addition
I watered my new tree last night and today my house smells. Is it the stagnant water?? What can I do to make the smell go away? It is a musty smell.
Answer: Well, not knowing more details, it could be any number of things. Where was the stand stored last year? Was it cleaned out before? Was the skirt stored in a damp area (like a basement)? Sometimes things stored in basements can have that musty smell. I know my basement is like that because it's a renovated 150 year old building with original limestone foundation.
However, ruling those types of things out, if the tree was wet before bringing inside...from snow, rain...particularly if it's a dense tree with lots of branches and needles, it may still be damp. I would just give it time to dry out once opened up. Crush a few needles to release the evergreen aroma.
Saturday, December 2, 2006
Trees for Troops - Live from the Field
(Blog entries by Becky Rasmussen and Steve Drake of NCTA who are traveling with the Trees for Troops convoy in the Pacific Northwest.)
Filed by Becky Rasmussen
I thought you all were sending me someplace warm ... the weather in Vegas is 40 degrees and 20 degrees wind chill.
The Nellis AFB delivery went off without a hitch. The FedEx truck with nearly 600 trees (and a driver who was a Gulf War veteran) arrived on time. Plenty of volunteers were on hand to unload and make fresh cuts -- families began arriving around 10 to pick them up. Most of them are going to junior airmen -- a large number of soldiers here are deployed and some will be arriving just in time for Christmas. Everyone was very appreciative -- and the Base Commander stopped by to extend his thanks.
Filed by Steve Drake
Wednesday, Nov 29
Today was "media day" in the Pacific Northwest as the Victorian Country Christmas Festival and KMPS-FM featured Trees for Troops throughout the day. It started with a KMPS morning show interview with country singer Michael Peterson. Michael shared his experiences in last week’s mission to Afghanistan and his New Year’s trip throughout the Middle East. He took time to talk about the value of Trees for Troops and to urge listeners to support the program. In addition to the thousands of KMPS listeners, organizers estimate that about 50,000 people will visit the Festival. This is a great event for Trees for Troops and the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation.
Thursday, Nov. 30
Well, the Marines at Camp Pendleton did it again. This event –– this year about 1,000 trees were given at two locations on the base –– truly illustrates the huge impact of Trees for Troops on military families.
It is really hard for me to describe the event and share the feelings of watching Real Christmas Trees being so graciously received. The Marine families are truly excited about receiving the trees. Their stories are very poignant. The joy in their eyes and that of the children clearly demonstrate the true spirit of Christmas. The enthusiasm and dedication of nearly 30 FedEx volunteers adds to the festive nature of the event as families, Marines and FedEx employees unload the trucks and re-load cars. And, watching the families fret over finding the perfect tree is not unlike the families buying trees at lots and farms all over America.
This year’s Camp Pendleton delivery offered a special treat as my daughter Michelle (who lives about 15 minutes from the base) was able to take off work and help direct Marines to trees and assisted families to selecting their trees. She even convinced the cameraman of the local CBS TV station that he should interview her Dad.
Filed by Becky Rasmussen
I thought you all were sending me someplace warm ... the weather in Vegas is 40 degrees and 20 degrees wind chill.
The Nellis AFB delivery went off without a hitch. The FedEx truck with nearly 600 trees (and a driver who was a Gulf War veteran) arrived on time. Plenty of volunteers were on hand to unload and make fresh cuts -- families began arriving around 10 to pick them up. Most of them are going to junior airmen -- a large number of soldiers here are deployed and some will be arriving just in time for Christmas. Everyone was very appreciative -- and the Base Commander stopped by to extend his thanks.
Filed by Steve Drake
Wednesday, Nov 29
Today was "media day" in the Pacific Northwest as the Victorian Country Christmas Festival and KMPS-FM featured Trees for Troops throughout the day. It started with a KMPS morning show interview with country singer Michael Peterson. Michael shared his experiences in last week’s mission to Afghanistan and his New Year’s trip throughout the Middle East. He took time to talk about the value of Trees for Troops and to urge listeners to support the program. In addition to the thousands of KMPS listeners, organizers estimate that about 50,000 people will visit the Festival. This is a great event for Trees for Troops and the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation.
Thursday, Nov. 30
Well, the Marines at Camp Pendleton did it again. This event –– this year about 1,000 trees were given at two locations on the base –– truly illustrates the huge impact of Trees for Troops on military families.
It is really hard for me to describe the event and share the feelings of watching Real Christmas Trees being so graciously received. The Marine families are truly excited about receiving the trees. Their stories are very poignant. The joy in their eyes and that of the children clearly demonstrate the true spirit of Christmas. The enthusiasm and dedication of nearly 30 FedEx volunteers adds to the festive nature of the event as families, Marines and FedEx employees unload the trucks and re-load cars. And, watching the families fret over finding the perfect tree is not unlike the families buying trees at lots and farms all over America.
This year’s Camp Pendleton delivery offered a special treat as my daughter Michelle (who lives about 15 minutes from the base) was able to take off work and help direct Marines to trees and assisted families to selecting their trees. She even convinced the cameraman of the local CBS TV station that he should interview her Dad.
Friday, December 1, 2006
Trees for Troops - Live from the Field
(Blog entry by Steve Drake, CEO of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, who is traveling with the Trees for Troops convoy in the Pacific Northwest.)
The Trees for Troops program launched into full force Monday (November 27) with pickups in Oregon, Washington, Maine and New Hampshire.
In Oregon, a wintery snow storm added to the Christmas spirit as more than 2,500 trees were loaded into FedEx Freight trucks at several locations. The trucks include the brand new FedEx Special Delivery trucks ... their first use ever. The twin trailers were loaded at the Drakes Crossing Nursery as Barabara Hupp, secretary of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, counted each of the trees to be sure we meet our goal.
In a coordinated effort, three cabs and six trailers pulled to the front of the Oregon State Capitol at 2 pm. Three thousand trees donated by Oregon growers will help brighten the holidays for troops and families.
Several FedEx Special Delivery trailers, parked briefly Monday in front of the Oregon State Capitol, contained bundled trees from four of the growers for shipment to eight military bases across the West. The 19 Oregon growers donated more than one-quarter of the 11,000 trees that FedEx is shipping in cooperation with the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation to U.S. troops, some of whom are stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The Oregon trees are bound for the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot, Camp Pendleton and Miramar Marine Corps Air Station, all near San Diego; Marine bases at Barstow and Twentynine Palms in the California desert; the Marine Corps air station near Yuma, Ariz.; Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.; and Fort Carson, Colo. "Most of the trees will be at the bases by Friday and some by Wednesday," said Steve Drake, the chief executive of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Christmas Tree Association.
And, if you've not already had a chance, go to www.ChristmasSPIRITFoundation.org ... read some of the letters of support.
The Trees for Troops program launched into full force Monday (November 27) with pickups in Oregon, Washington, Maine and New Hampshire.
In Oregon, a wintery snow storm added to the Christmas spirit as more than 2,500 trees were loaded into FedEx Freight trucks at several locations. The trucks include the brand new FedEx Special Delivery trucks ... their first use ever. The twin trailers were loaded at the Drakes Crossing Nursery as Barabara Hupp, secretary of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, counted each of the trees to be sure we meet our goal.
In a coordinated effort, three cabs and six trailers pulled to the front of the Oregon State Capitol at 2 pm. Three thousand trees donated by Oregon growers will help brighten the holidays for troops and families.
Several FedEx Special Delivery trailers, parked briefly Monday in front of the Oregon State Capitol, contained bundled trees from four of the growers for shipment to eight military bases across the West. The 19 Oregon growers donated more than one-quarter of the 11,000 trees that FedEx is shipping in cooperation with the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation to U.S. troops, some of whom are stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The Oregon trees are bound for the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot, Camp Pendleton and Miramar Marine Corps Air Station, all near San Diego; Marine bases at Barstow and Twentynine Palms in the California desert; the Marine Corps air station near Yuma, Ariz.; Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.; and Fort Carson, Colo. "Most of the trees will be at the bases by Friday and some by Wednesday," said Steve Drake, the chief executive of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Christmas Tree Association.
And, if you've not already had a chance, go to www.ChristmasSPIRITFoundation.org ... read some of the letters of support.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Season Kicks Off
We’ve heard from several farms around the country who have reported sales started off brisk this weekend. I suspect that next weekend, many more people will start to get into the Christmas mood with a massive cold front coming through most of the country.
You may have heard about the Trees for Troops program. It kicks off the domestic routes next week and we’ll be posting many updates about that. If you do a search for a place to buy a Christmas Tree, you may notice a small icon next to some of the farms/lots. The icon indicates they have donated trees to the program. If you buy a tree from one of those farms with an icon, make sure and say thanks to them. The public can support the program by contributing to the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation .
Early this week, there was a problem with the zip code search function of the web site not returning results for zip codes in the East that begin with zero. This has been fixed and is now working properly. If you notice any problems with the web site as you’re looking for a place to buy a tree, please email info@realchristmastrees.org.
From: Linda
Sent: Friday, November 24, 2006
Subject: evergreen
I was wondering if you could answer a question...I was traveling on I-94 toward Detroit from Chicago and drove past a tree farm, I believe near Jackson, MI, where I noticed a most unusal shade of blue evergreen growing. Can you tell me what that tree is called?
Answer: Could be several different species that can have foliage with a blue tint. But in that area, most likely was a Blue Spruce.
http://www.christmastree.org/trees/bl_spruc.cfm
You may have heard about the Trees for Troops program. It kicks off the domestic routes next week and we’ll be posting many updates about that. If you do a search for a place to buy a Christmas Tree, you may notice a small icon next to some of the farms/lots. The icon indicates they have donated trees to the program. If you buy a tree from one of those farms with an icon, make sure and say thanks to them. The public can support the program by contributing to the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation .
Early this week, there was a problem with the zip code search function of the web site not returning results for zip codes in the East that begin with zero. This has been fixed and is now working properly. If you notice any problems with the web site as you’re looking for a place to buy a tree, please email info@realchristmastrees.org.
From: Linda
Sent: Friday, November 24, 2006
Subject: evergreen
I was wondering if you could answer a question...I was traveling on I-94 toward Detroit from Chicago and drove past a tree farm, I believe near Jackson, MI, where I noticed a most unusal shade of blue evergreen growing. Can you tell me what that tree is called?
Answer: Could be several different species that can have foliage with a blue tint. But in that area, most likely was a Blue Spruce.
http://www.christmastree.org/trees/bl_spruc.cfm
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Another Option?
From: Ryan McDaniel
Sent: Sunday, November 19, 2006
Subject: third xmas tree option?
Everyone knows about the two options available for xmas trees--real or fake. But what about this one: get a variety of pine that only grows to the average height of a cut xmas tree (about 8 feet?), and just bring it in every year. Or if there is no xmas-looking tree that only grows to this height, you may be able to keep it the right height by pruning its roots like a bonsai tree, which would make it easier to bring inside too. And then the amount of oxygen produced by the trees would be greater than the amount that you talk about on your website because the trees would be alive and photosynthesizing all year long. And there would be no need to recycle them. Do you think this is possible? Is there a variety of tree that would work?
Answer: hmmm...OK. Interesting idea. Actually one of the more interesting emails we've received in a while. The first thing I would say is that many people in fact enjoy buying a Christmas Tree with the roots still intact and then plant it in their yard after Christmas. These are often sold as Ball and Burlap or potted trees. This is a great option if you have a big yard that needs trees and can follow some specific guidelines http://www.christmastree.org/livecare.cfm .
Next, I would say that none of the conifers used as Christmas Trees are going to stop growing at 8 feet, and even if they did, digging them up multiple years in a row would probably kill it. I suppose you could keep shearing off the leader each year to keep it at 8 feet tall, but the tree would respond by growing VERY wide.
And, at the risk of sounding lecture-ish (which is not my intent), the point about trees grown on farms producing oxygen is made mostly because the trees on farms wouldn't be there if they weren't planted by farmers for the purpose of being harvested. There are an estimated 500 million trees on 21,000 acres of tree farms growing and producing oxygen. Young, small, fast-growing trees produce a lot of oxygen while "trapping" carbon in the plant tissue. I'm not sure you could convince homeowners to plant that many trees to replace those grown by farmers.
Sent: Sunday, November 19, 2006
Subject: third xmas tree option?
Everyone knows about the two options available for xmas trees--real or fake. But what about this one: get a variety of pine that only grows to the average height of a cut xmas tree (about 8 feet?), and just bring it in every year. Or if there is no xmas-looking tree that only grows to this height, you may be able to keep it the right height by pruning its roots like a bonsai tree, which would make it easier to bring inside too. And then the amount of oxygen produced by the trees would be greater than the amount that you talk about on your website because the trees would be alive and photosynthesizing all year long. And there would be no need to recycle them. Do you think this is possible? Is there a variety of tree that would work?
Answer: hmmm...OK. Interesting idea. Actually one of the more interesting emails we've received in a while. The first thing I would say is that many people in fact enjoy buying a Christmas Tree with the roots still intact and then plant it in their yard after Christmas. These are often sold as Ball and Burlap or potted trees. This is a great option if you have a big yard that needs trees and can follow some specific guidelines http://www.christmastree.org/livecare.cfm .
Next, I would say that none of the conifers used as Christmas Trees are going to stop growing at 8 feet, and even if they did, digging them up multiple years in a row would probably kill it. I suppose you could keep shearing off the leader each year to keep it at 8 feet tall, but the tree would respond by growing VERY wide.
And, at the risk of sounding lecture-ish (which is not my intent), the point about trees grown on farms producing oxygen is made mostly because the trees on farms wouldn't be there if they weren't planted by farmers for the purpose of being harvested. There are an estimated 500 million trees on 21,000 acres of tree farms growing and producing oxygen. Young, small, fast-growing trees produce a lot of oxygen while "trapping" carbon in the plant tissue. I'm not sure you could convince homeowners to plant that many trees to replace those grown by farmers.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Reader Q&A
Thanksgiving is next week... a blog entry was due.
Got a great e-mail note forwarded from a farm in New Hampshire. The note came from a customer who had just ordered a farm-grown tree.
From: Terry Kaiser
To: Nigel Manley
Sent: Thursday, November 16, 2006
Subject: Re: Tree order
Thank you! I bought my first artificial tree last year and can't stand it!!
Answer: Yeah, well, I can see how that would happen. Now unfortunately, that belatedly wise person is left with a non-biodegradable mass of metal and plastic. What’s he going to do with it? Leave it in storage? Toss it in the trash? Either way, it’s a shame. He should have stuck with a Real Tree all along.
Did anyone see the article in the USA Today this week about some of the trends in fake trees? One trend is prices going ever higher. Somehow the fake trees are becoming more realistic with some new kind of plastic mold process and cost about $500! Good grief, I can think of many things I’d rather spend $500 on.
The other trend is fake trees made with black plastic. A black Christmas tree....seriously. How existential. Sometimes I just don’t understand people’s desire to be different for the sake of being different.
From: Mike
Sent: Friday, November 17, 2006
Subject: Tree Stand
I would like to purchase a 12' unflocked tree. I know I need a stand with a water reservoir. I would like to know if you can recommend a manufacturer that is known to produce a safe stand that does not usually allow a tree of that size to tip over. Pretty much what I'm asking is who makes the best large tree stand?
Answer: Hard to say one is "the best"...there are many good ones out there.
I would look at the Cinco stand, which makes several sizes including a large size for trees that big. http://www.cincoplastics.com/
If the retailer you purchase from has a drill machine, you can also get a pin style stand such as the Yule Stand. http://timmitchellsyulestand.com/
Grip tight stands are very stable, but can only hold a trunk 5.5" inch diameter...depending on the species you get, some species will have a thicker trunk at 12 foot tall. http://www.griptightchristmastreestands.com/
Krinner Stands make an XXL size too http://krinnerusa.com/
Sheerlund Products makes a stand called Monster Super Stand http://www.sheerlundproducts.com/store/product.php?productid=16322&cat=288&page=1
With any of these manufacturers, you'd have to call/email them to find out if they have a retailer near you or if they'd sell direct.
Whichever you choose, my advice would be to NOT sacrifice water capacity for stability. You don't have to do that. Another tip to add stability is use some heavy fishing line (like 20 lb clear monofilament which is nearly invisible) tied to the tree and something stable near the tree (end table, sofa, hanging plant hook, etc).
Next week - a TV news piece actually showing how a watered tree does NOT catch on fire. Plus, Trees for Troops is about to kick off.
Got a great e-mail note forwarded from a farm in New Hampshire. The note came from a customer who had just ordered a farm-grown tree.
From: Terry Kaiser
To: Nigel Manley
Sent: Thursday, November 16, 2006
Subject: Re: Tree order
Thank you! I bought my first artificial tree last year and can't stand it!!
Answer: Yeah, well, I can see how that would happen. Now unfortunately, that belatedly wise person is left with a non-biodegradable mass of metal and plastic. What’s he going to do with it? Leave it in storage? Toss it in the trash? Either way, it’s a shame. He should have stuck with a Real Tree all along.
Did anyone see the article in the USA Today this week about some of the trends in fake trees? One trend is prices going ever higher. Somehow the fake trees are becoming more realistic with some new kind of plastic mold process and cost about $500! Good grief, I can think of many things I’d rather spend $500 on.
The other trend is fake trees made with black plastic. A black Christmas tree....seriously. How existential. Sometimes I just don’t understand people’s desire to be different for the sake of being different.
From: Mike
Sent: Friday, November 17, 2006
Subject: Tree Stand
I would like to purchase a 12' unflocked tree. I know I need a stand with a water reservoir. I would like to know if you can recommend a manufacturer that is known to produce a safe stand that does not usually allow a tree of that size to tip over. Pretty much what I'm asking is who makes the best large tree stand?
Answer: Hard to say one is "the best"...there are many good ones out there.
I would look at the Cinco stand, which makes several sizes including a large size for trees that big. http://www.cincoplastics.com/
If the retailer you purchase from has a drill machine, you can also get a pin style stand such as the Yule Stand. http://timmitchellsyulestand.com/
Grip tight stands are very stable, but can only hold a trunk 5.5" inch diameter...depending on the species you get, some species will have a thicker trunk at 12 foot tall. http://www.griptightchristmastreestands.com/
Krinner Stands make an XXL size too http://krinnerusa.com/
Sheerlund Products makes a stand called Monster Super Stand http://www.sheerlundproducts.com/store/product.php?productid=16322&cat=288&page=1
With any of these manufacturers, you'd have to call/email them to find out if they have a retailer near you or if they'd sell direct.
Whichever you choose, my advice would be to NOT sacrifice water capacity for stability. You don't have to do that. Another tip to add stability is use some heavy fishing line (like 20 lb clear monofilament which is nearly invisible) tied to the tree and something stable near the tree (end table, sofa, hanging plant hook, etc).
Next week - a TV news piece actually showing how a watered tree does NOT catch on fire. Plus, Trees for Troops is about to kick off.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Reader Q&A
From: Martha
Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Subject: Which Tree?
Which kind of tree would smell the best? I haven't had a real tree in years and I've missed it.
Answer: Glad to know you'll be going back to a traditional, farm-grown Christmas Tree Martha. It's impossible to tell you which tree smells the best. Smell is a very subjective sense...what smells "good" to me may not to other people, and so on. I can't even tell you that one species of tree smells stronger, for certain, because again, everyone smells things differently. There are some general consensus characteristics, such as Leyland Cypress has very little aroma, Douglas-fir has a citrus smell, White Pine has light aroma unless sap oozes out, most of the fir species are typically described as strong aroma. You can read more about general characteristics of common species on this page http://www.christmastree.org/common.cfm.
From: Bob and Mary Ellen
Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
We plan to cut a scraggley spruce or balsam tree from our woods to use for outdoor decorating and shelter for the birds at the feeders. Can this tree be cut now, though it is unseasonably warm at this moment here in northern Wisconsin? We would the tree to stay green through the winter.
Answer: hard to say...it would have a much better chance if you put the butt in a bucket of water and filled it through the season. Otherwise, how quickly it will dry out will depend on many things such as relative humidity, how much direct sunlight is on it each day, how much wind it is exposed to, how much snow and ice falls on it, etc.
Response from Mary Ellen: I am very impressed with your prompt reply and plan to do what you suggest (even though the consequence of putting one's butt into a bucket of water during northern Wisconsin winter would no doubt be to find one's butt in a bucket of ice before much time passes--sorry, I simply couldn't resist that comment :)
Thanks so much for taking your time to reply to our email. We will try our best to do as you suggest to keep the tree green as long as possible.
Answer: LOL...yeah, well, I guess I could have explained that a little better. The other tip I can suggest is to put the tree in a garage or someplace a little warmer than just outside once placed in a bucket of water. The warmer temp will stimulate water absorption, give it a few days then move it outside.
Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Subject: Which Tree?
Which kind of tree would smell the best? I haven't had a real tree in years and I've missed it.
Answer: Glad to know you'll be going back to a traditional, farm-grown Christmas Tree Martha. It's impossible to tell you which tree smells the best. Smell is a very subjective sense...what smells "good" to me may not to other people, and so on. I can't even tell you that one species of tree smells stronger, for certain, because again, everyone smells things differently. There are some general consensus characteristics, such as Leyland Cypress has very little aroma, Douglas-fir has a citrus smell, White Pine has light aroma unless sap oozes out, most of the fir species are typically described as strong aroma. You can read more about general characteristics of common species on this page http://www.christmastree.org/common.cfm.
From: Bob and Mary Ellen
Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Subject: Blog Talk Ideas
We plan to cut a scraggley spruce or balsam tree from our woods to use for outdoor decorating and shelter for the birds at the feeders. Can this tree be cut now, though it is unseasonably warm at this moment here in northern Wisconsin? We would the tree to stay green through the winter.
Answer: hard to say...it would have a much better chance if you put the butt in a bucket of water and filled it through the season. Otherwise, how quickly it will dry out will depend on many things such as relative humidity, how much direct sunlight is on it each day, how much wind it is exposed to, how much snow and ice falls on it, etc.
Response from Mary Ellen: I am very impressed with your prompt reply and plan to do what you suggest (even though the consequence of putting one's butt into a bucket of water during northern Wisconsin winter would no doubt be to find one's butt in a bucket of ice before much time passes--sorry, I simply couldn't resist that comment :)
Thanks so much for taking your time to reply to our email. We will try our best to do as you suggest to keep the tree green as long as possible.
Answer: LOL...yeah, well, I guess I could have explained that a little better. The other tip I can suggest is to put the tree in a garage or someplace a little warmer than just outside once placed in a bucket of water. The warmer temp will stimulate water absorption, give it a few days then move it outside.
Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Narrow Trees for Condos
Many people are beginning to think about their tree and decorating needs now that we are into November and chillier weather (at least it’s chilly here in St. Louis).
We got a great question from Travis this week about finding a narrow tree that fits in an urban condo. I face the same problem, as I live in a rennovated, 140 year old row house in St. Louis. The whole space of my place is only 14.5 feet wide, so I HAVE to get a narrow tree too. Here’s
Travis’ question and my advice:
From: Travis
Sent: Friday, November 03, 2006
Subject: suggestions???
We live in Chicago, in a great, but tight condo. We entertain alot, so we can't afford to lose a lot of floorspace for a tree. Do you have any suggestions on what type of tree we should get? We would like something very fragrant, tall (about 9 ft), but very slender. Pls advise.
Answer: That's a great question Travis. I'm in a similar situation and I'm sure many others are as well. Here's the main tidbit to know in order to get the best-sized tree for your situation. Taper is the term used to describe the general shape the tree is sheared. It's a measure of the proportion between a tree's height and width (at the widest point, usually the bottom whorl of branches). In general, trees are typically sheared to a 80 degree taper. This means, if a tree is 10 foot tall, it will be 8 foot wide at the bottom. Or, if it is sheared to a 50 degree taper, then a 10 foot tall tree will be only 5 feet wide.
Now, just about any species of tree can be sheared to different tapers, plus fullness of branches, space between whorls, leader height, etc. So it's not so much a matter of asking for a particular species, but asking the farm or retail lot person for a tree with a smaller taper. If you want a 9 foot tree, you should ask for one with a 50 or 60 degree taper, which will be pretty narrow. Level of "fragrant-ness" is completely subjective, so I can't tell you one species will smell "stronger" than another. However, I can tell you that most fir species sheared to that narrow of a taper will be more open, meaning space between branches...you will be able to "look through it". If you get a pine or spruce species, there will be more "fullness" to the appearance of the tree. Now, this is a general guideline, because like most things in nature, there are variations.
If you are going to a farm to cut a tree yourself, I do suggest calling ahead (and call during business hours on a week day if possible so the farmer him/herself is available). Tell them what you are looking for so you know if they have any trees like that available. Happy Hunting!
Note: For all you scrapbookers out there....
The National Scrapbooking Association will be hosting Harvesting Memories Charity Crops on Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11. The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation is the designated charity for the events and will receive donations. Crops are being held in Dallas, Detroit, Las Vegas, St. Louis, Pasadena (CA) and Concord (NH). http://www.harvestingmemories.org/
Keep the questions coming!
We got a great question from Travis this week about finding a narrow tree that fits in an urban condo. I face the same problem, as I live in a rennovated, 140 year old row house in St. Louis. The whole space of my place is only 14.5 feet wide, so I HAVE to get a narrow tree too. Here’s
Travis’ question and my advice:
From: Travis
Sent: Friday, November 03, 2006
Subject: suggestions???
We live in Chicago, in a great, but tight condo. We entertain alot, so we can't afford to lose a lot of floorspace for a tree. Do you have any suggestions on what type of tree we should get? We would like something very fragrant, tall (about 9 ft), but very slender. Pls advise.
Answer: That's a great question Travis. I'm in a similar situation and I'm sure many others are as well. Here's the main tidbit to know in order to get the best-sized tree for your situation. Taper is the term used to describe the general shape the tree is sheared. It's a measure of the proportion between a tree's height and width (at the widest point, usually the bottom whorl of branches). In general, trees are typically sheared to a 80 degree taper. This means, if a tree is 10 foot tall, it will be 8 foot wide at the bottom. Or, if it is sheared to a 50 degree taper, then a 10 foot tall tree will be only 5 feet wide.
Now, just about any species of tree can be sheared to different tapers, plus fullness of branches, space between whorls, leader height, etc. So it's not so much a matter of asking for a particular species, but asking the farm or retail lot person for a tree with a smaller taper. If you want a 9 foot tree, you should ask for one with a 50 or 60 degree taper, which will be pretty narrow. Level of "fragrant-ness" is completely subjective, so I can't tell you one species will smell "stronger" than another. However, I can tell you that most fir species sheared to that narrow of a taper will be more open, meaning space between branches...you will be able to "look through it". If you get a pine or spruce species, there will be more "fullness" to the appearance of the tree. Now, this is a general guideline, because like most things in nature, there are variations.
If you are going to a farm to cut a tree yourself, I do suggest calling ahead (and call during business hours on a week day if possible so the farmer him/herself is available). Tell them what you are looking for so you know if they have any trees like that available. Happy Hunting!
Note: For all you scrapbookers out there....
The National Scrapbooking Association will be hosting Harvesting Memories Charity Crops on Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11. The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation is the designated charity for the events and will receive donations. Crops are being held in Dallas, Detroit, Las Vegas, St. Louis, Pasadena (CA) and Concord (NH). http://www.harvestingmemories.org/
Keep the questions coming!
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
News Updates
After tomorrow, the ghouls and goblins will be put away for another year and we’ll be 3 weeks and 2 days from the start of Christmas Tree sales season. Harvesting will begin in the large production areas soon and the Choose and Cut farms will put the final touches on their farms for customers.
We saw a few interesting stories this week. This one was about a woman who got badly shocked by a pre-lit, fake plastic tree. Link: http://www.wvrecord.com/news/newsview.asp?c=185937.
Now, not only are fake trees a potential health hazard from lead dust, but they can shock you too? Yikes. Yet another reason to use a natural, farm-grown Christmas Tree... they won’t shock you since wood is a non-conductive material. One interesting note from the story: the insurance company for the store where the fake tree was purchased told the woman that she would have to take up her issue with the tree’s manufacturer.....IN TOKYO! Nice.
Here’s another one that was interesting. Someone has kept their Christmas Tree in their basement since last year and say it’s fresh enough still to use again this year. Link: http://www.mykawartha.com/article/5017 .
Now, I know there’s powerful sentimental value attached to the tree for the owners, and we’ve heard of the occasional specimen of tree maintaining moisture and needles for an uncommonly long time. However, we’re going to recommend against using the same tree for two years in a row.
Happy Halloween.
We saw a few interesting stories this week. This one was about a woman who got badly shocked by a pre-lit, fake plastic tree. Link: http://www.wvrecord.com/news/newsview.asp?c=185937.
Now, not only are fake trees a potential health hazard from lead dust, but they can shock you too? Yikes. Yet another reason to use a natural, farm-grown Christmas Tree... they won’t shock you since wood is a non-conductive material. One interesting note from the story: the insurance company for the store where the fake tree was purchased told the woman that she would have to take up her issue with the tree’s manufacturer.....IN TOKYO! Nice.
Here’s another one that was interesting. Someone has kept their Christmas Tree in their basement since last year and say it’s fresh enough still to use again this year. Link: http://www.mykawartha.com/article/5017 .
Now, I know there’s powerful sentimental value attached to the tree for the owners, and we’ve heard of the occasional specimen of tree maintaining moisture and needles for an uncommonly long time. However, we’re going to recommend against using the same tree for two years in a row.
Happy Halloween.
Friday, October 6, 2006
It's Almost Time
Almost time!
Christmas Tree sales season starts 7 weeks from today, November 24, the day after Thanksgiving.
Many Choose & Cut farms and retail lots around the country will open up that day. Many farms are already open for pumpkin sales and Autumn agri-tainment. If you’re going to get some pumpkins to decorate for harvest season and/or Halloween, and you want a fun family day outing in the country, check the Christmas Tree farms in your area to see if they are offering pumpkin sales. Many of them also offer hay rides, corn mazes, haunted barns, gift shops, arts and crafts, and many other activities.
Here at NCTA, we’re gearing up for 3 big things this year.
First is the essay contest. We have had many questions and inquiries about the contest already this year. Here’s an example from Amanda:
From: Amanda Walker
Sent: Sunday, September 17, 2006
Subject: The Real Christmas Tree Scholarship Contest
I have been trying to download the entry form and official rules for the contest but for some reason it will not work. If you could please help me with that, it would be greatly appreciated!
Answer: Yep Amanda...and all other kids out there. The contest will be held again in 2006 and the entry forms are ready for downloading and printing. You can find a link on the front page. The entry form has already been downloaded more than 3,600 times since we posted it in mid-September!
The second big thing we will be concentrating on this year is the 2nd Real Trees for Troops program sponsored by the Christmas Spirit Foundation and Fed Ex. Christmas Tree farmers all over the U.S. will be donating more than 14,000 trees this year while Fed Ex delivers them to more than 20 military bases. It’s an ambitious but very worthy effort. You can read about the plans so far and support the program through this link:
http://www.christmasspiritfoundation.org/programs/trees4troops/home.htm
The third thing we’ll be concentrating on is new for 2006 and related to the Trees 4 Troops program. The National Scrapbooking Association and the Christmas Spirit Foundation will be coordinating Harvesting Memories, a srapbooking crop and shop experience on Veterans Day - November 11 - to raise funds for Trees for Troops, a nationwide effort to boost the Christmas spirit for U.S. military men and women. If you are a scrapbooker, you don’t want to miss this.
Here’s a link to more info http://www.harvestingmemories.org/.
As you can see, it’s going to be a busy year, especially if we see another increase in the number of fresh, farm-grown Christmas Trees purchased for the third year in a row. Check back often in the coming weeks as we’ll start posting more frequently.
Christmas Tree sales season starts 7 weeks from today, November 24, the day after Thanksgiving.
Many Choose & Cut farms and retail lots around the country will open up that day. Many farms are already open for pumpkin sales and Autumn agri-tainment. If you’re going to get some pumpkins to decorate for harvest season and/or Halloween, and you want a fun family day outing in the country, check the Christmas Tree farms in your area to see if they are offering pumpkin sales. Many of them also offer hay rides, corn mazes, haunted barns, gift shops, arts and crafts, and many other activities.
Here at NCTA, we’re gearing up for 3 big things this year.
First is the essay contest. We have had many questions and inquiries about the contest already this year. Here’s an example from Amanda:
From: Amanda Walker
Sent: Sunday, September 17, 2006
Subject: The Real Christmas Tree Scholarship Contest
I have been trying to download the entry form and official rules for the contest but for some reason it will not work. If you could please help me with that, it would be greatly appreciated!
Answer: Yep Amanda...and all other kids out there. The contest will be held again in 2006 and the entry forms are ready for downloading and printing. You can find a link on the front page. The entry form has already been downloaded more than 3,600 times since we posted it in mid-September!
The second big thing we will be concentrating on this year is the 2nd Real Trees for Troops program sponsored by the Christmas Spirit Foundation and Fed Ex. Christmas Tree farmers all over the U.S. will be donating more than 14,000 trees this year while Fed Ex delivers them to more than 20 military bases. It’s an ambitious but very worthy effort. You can read about the plans so far and support the program through this link:
http://www.christmasspiritfoundation.org/programs/trees4troops/home.htm
The third thing we’ll be concentrating on is new for 2006 and related to the Trees 4 Troops program. The National Scrapbooking Association and the Christmas Spirit Foundation will be coordinating Harvesting Memories, a srapbooking crop and shop experience on Veterans Day - November 11 - to raise funds for Trees for Troops, a nationwide effort to boost the Christmas spirit for U.S. military men and women. If you are a scrapbooker, you don’t want to miss this.
Here’s a link to more info http://www.harvestingmemories.org/.
As you can see, it’s going to be a busy year, especially if we see another increase in the number of fresh, farm-grown Christmas Trees purchased for the third year in a row. Check back often in the coming weeks as we’ll start posting more frequently.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
A Few Updates ...
Last week we saw an article describing a news conference given by the Foreign Minister of China. In this address, he said fake trees made in China and shipped to the U.S. helps to conserve the U.S. environment.
Seriously.....it was such a ridiculous thing to say, we had to put out a news release refuting the statement. You can read it on our current releases page.
The winners of the Help Santa Find the Perfect Christmas Tree essay contest were announced. We had nearly 5,000 entries this year! Way to go kids! See the list of winners, their photos and essays here.
Speaking of the environment, particularly recycling...our partnership with EARTH 911 continues to yield results. The number of tree recycling sites listed in their online, searchable database went from 3,540 to 3,824. While the number of visitors to the recycling information on EARTH 911 web site went up over 15%.
Remember, if you have questions or suggestions for a blog topic, please send them in. Rest assured we do work all year, not just November and December!
Seriously.....it was such a ridiculous thing to say, we had to put out a news release refuting the statement. You can read it on our current releases page.
The winners of the Help Santa Find the Perfect Christmas Tree essay contest were announced. We had nearly 5,000 entries this year! Way to go kids! See the list of winners, their photos and essays here.
Speaking of the environment, particularly recycling...our partnership with EARTH 911 continues to yield results. The number of tree recycling sites listed in their online, searchable database went from 3,540 to 3,824. While the number of visitors to the recycling information on EARTH 911 web site went up over 15%.
Remember, if you have questions or suggestions for a blog topic, please send them in. Rest assured we do work all year, not just November and December!
No Rest in the Spring
Many people think that once Christmas is over, there is no more activity for the Christmas Tree industry. Actually there is ... in the warmer climates, planting of new seedlings begins in January, but in colder climates, they don’t start planting until May. After the season, growers and retailers take stock of everything needed for their business, decide what needs replacing, restocking, etc.
For our part here in the association office, we are busy with a marketing conference for the Christmas Tree industry that takes place in February. We work with news media on stories about tree recycling, and we even continue to get questions from consumers. Here’s a recent one from Ryan asking about starting a Christmas Tree business:
From: Ryan
Sent: Saturday, March 11, 2006
I have always been interested in starting a Christmas Tree Business to benefit the school where I teach, and other community programs. How hard is it to get started in this industry?
Answer: Well, "hard" is a subjective term Ryan.
If you are interested in operating a farm to grow Christmas Trees, the first requirement would be suitable land. We offer some general advice in the FAQs section because growing trees can vary greatly depending on where you are located.
If you are interested in operating a retail lot to sell Christmas Trees, that should be approached like any other retail business. First, find a location and secure approval to operate a seasonal retail business there. Check with municipal authorities on required licensing, code requirements, and other business filing. If you are a non-profit organization that can draw upon volunteer labor then hiring employees can be avoided.
Some people would consider all this hard, and other find it a breeze.
For our part here in the association office, we are busy with a marketing conference for the Christmas Tree industry that takes place in February. We work with news media on stories about tree recycling, and we even continue to get questions from consumers. Here’s a recent one from Ryan asking about starting a Christmas Tree business:
From: Ryan
Sent: Saturday, March 11, 2006
I have always been interested in starting a Christmas Tree Business to benefit the school where I teach, and other community programs. How hard is it to get started in this industry?
Answer: Well, "hard" is a subjective term Ryan.
If you are interested in operating a farm to grow Christmas Trees, the first requirement would be suitable land. We offer some general advice in the FAQs section because growing trees can vary greatly depending on where you are located.
If you are interested in operating a retail lot to sell Christmas Trees, that should be approached like any other retail business. First, find a location and secure approval to operate a seasonal retail business there. Check with municipal authorities on required licensing, code requirements, and other business filing. If you are a non-profit organization that can draw upon volunteer labor then hiring employees can be avoided.
Some people would consider all this hard, and other find it a breeze.
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