One month until Christmas, it’s hard to believe!
It’s about that time to start planning for that holiday tree of yours, so if you’re going shopping soon, here’s a few places to get yours:
- Canadian Tire, Home Depot or other hardware stores (real or fake trees).
- Most chain grocery stores (call your nearest location for stock information).
- Porter River Trees: grown on a farm in Nova Scotia, Porter River Christmas Trees specialize in gorgeous balsam fir trees from five to eight feet tall. Order online.
- Blue Grass Nursery in Balsac has a pretty wide selection of trees.
- Local non-profits: Scouts Canada or YMCA, to name a few.
If you’re going for a real Christmas tree this holiday, you’ll want to ensure you take proper care of it, as holiday trees are one of the leading causes of home fires during this time of year. A dry tree strung with brightly-lit heat sources can be a real fire hazard.
“Live Christmas trees are really festive – and a popular holiday tradition this time of year,” said Carol Henke, Calgary Fire Department Public Information Officer. “However, if they dry out or are left close to a heat source, such as a heater, fireplace or candles, they can be a fire hazard.” [City of Calgary]
Here are some tips to ensuring your tree is kept hydrated and safe this year:
• If you bend the needles between your fingers, do they break? If yes, your tree is very dry.
• Cut about a centimetre off the bottom of the trunk – this helps it absorb water easier
• Water your tree often, the water line should never dip below the cut of the trunk
• Secure your tree tight, and ensure it doesn’t tip. Get yourself a good stand.
• Keep your tree away from heat sources and electrical outlets and sources
• Ensure you are cleaning up fallen needles often
