Care of Your Living Christmas Tree. . .

Caring for your live tree in your home.... Place the tree in a water-tight container such as a tub or pail. Soak root ball thoroughly and keep moist throughout its stay in your home. Check ball daily, it may require two quarts to one gallon of water every day. Decorate carefully. Small, cool "twinkle lights" are recommended. Don't keep tree in your home longer than 5-7 days. (Longer period could cause tree to break dormancy, resulting in transplant shock). Caring for your live tree outdoors.... In cold climate, after removal from indoors, store tree in cool, ventilated garage, porch or protected area for 10-12 days to acclimate it to the cold before planting. Check root ball daily and keep moist as before. Dig hole larger then earthball or roots. Remove plastic or metal container from tree but not burlap. Cut side of fiber container carefully in two or three places. Set earthball into ground so that top is slightly below ground level. Fill hole with good topsoil. Add peat moss to help retain moisture. Firm soil around plant to eliminate air pockets. Soak thoroughly. Water weekly and fertilize per manufacturer's recommendation.