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Keeping a Christmas Tree Fresh
Here's how to maintain your tree's fragrance and prevent mass needle fallout:
1. When you buy your tree, have an inch cut off the base to make it easier for the tree to take in water. (Be sure the cut is straight so the tree will stand up properly.)
2. If you don't plan to put the tree up right away, place it in a bucket of warm water and stand it in an unheated garage or porch away from the wind and cold.
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3. When you bring your tree inside, use a stand that holds at least one gallon of water.
4. Keep your tree well watered. Water prevents the needles from drying and dropping off and maintains the fragrance. Trees may use several quarts a day, so check the water level in the stand every few hours.
5. Never let the water level fall below the base of the tree or the cut end may seal over, preventing further water intake.
6. Don't add anything to the water. Though some people swear that throwing in such extras as aspirin, soda water, bleach, salt, sugar, or Karo syrup keeps trees fresher longer, the experts say plain water, and plenty of it, is best.
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