Christmas Tree Safety Tips:
- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long and has probably dried out and is a fire hazard.
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2″ from the base of the trunk.
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
- Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
- Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
- Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
- When purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.
- Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
Tips To Purchase a Permit to Cut Your Christmas Tree From an Oregon National Forest
The holiday season is upon us, which means the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree is on. For those looking to bring home a real tree, permits are available now for all Oregon national forests.
Christmas tree permits are available for purchase online at recreation.gov (with an added $2.50 processing fee charged by the website) and at local U.S. Forest Service offices or from local vendors.
Permits are $5 each, and each permit allows the cutting of one Christmas tree. Households can purchase a maximum of five permits.
For downloadable maps of tree-cutting areas and a list of local vendors selling tree permits, go to bit.ly/WNFtree .
Fourth-grade students can receive a free tree permit by getting their Every Kid Outdoors pass and entering the voucher or pass number when prompted on Recreation.gov or by visiting a Forest Service office.
Tips for keeping your real Christmas tree fresh, and green.
1. Choose a Fresh Tree: Look for a tree with vibrant, green needles that don’t easily fall off when touched.
2. Measure Before Buying: Ensure the tree fits your space by measuring the height and width of the area where you plan to place it.
3. Water Regularly: Keep the tree stand filled with water to prevent the needles from drying out. Freshly cut trees can absorb a lot of water in the first few days.
4. Trim the Trunk/base : If the tree was pre-cut, make a fresh cut at the base before placing it in water. This helps the tree absorb water more effectively.
5. Avoid Heat Sources: Place the tree away from heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, and heaters to prevent it from drying out too quickly.
6. Use the Right Lights: Choose LED lights that emit less heat, reducing the risk of drying out the tree. Check and replace any damaged bulbs before decorating.
7. Monitor for Dryness: Check the tree regularly for dryness. If the needles start to fall off easily or the branches feel brittle, it’s time to say goodbye to the tree.
8. Dispose Responsibly: After the holidays, consider recycling your tree. Many communities offer tree recycling programs.
Watering:
A larger tree will need more water—around one gallon per day is a good rule of thumb.
Check the water levels twice daily to ensure your tree stays hydrated.
If needles start falling off when you tug on a branch, it’s a sign the tree is drying out and should be removed.
Never let the basin dry out or else a seal will form preventing the tree from drinking again-Check the water level at least twice a day ESPECIALLY AT THE BEGINNING! Keep the tree away from heat sources (fireplaces, heating vents, direct sunlight, etc)The cooler the room is kept the better – preferably below 65*fLimit use of decorative lights as they emit heat and will dry the tree out fasterDrilling holes in the trunk does NOT improve water intake
For families with real Christmas trees…..I learned something interesting. Before watering your tree……boil the water first, let stand for 5 minutes and then water tree! This with keep the sap from getting hard and allow for the water to go up the bark! Cold water clogs the openings with the sap and your tree will die much quicker! This will help to preserve your tree throughout the season. Use this method every time you water the tree.Share if you know people who have real Christmas trees 
to help them keep them fresh. 
Lighting:
Inspect all lights before hanging them on your tree. Check for damage and replace any broken strands.
Older lights can get hot and dry out the tree, so consider using newer, energy-efficient ones that stay cool.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, and turn off the lights whenever you’re not at home or sleeping.
Turn your Christmas tree into a lasting memory!
Living Christmas trees are perfect for the season and beyond. For a charming display, try a trio of trees with varying shades of green. Remember, keep them watered, away from heat, and let them shine indoors for just a short time before planting them outdoors to enjoy for years to come. Pro tip: use pruned branches for wreaths or table décor–it’s the ultimate in sustainable holiday cheer!
3 Pro Tips for a Christmas Tree That Will Wow Your Kids and Guests!
December is here, and it’s time to embrace the most festive season of the year! If you’re planning to set up your Christmas tree—or it’s already standing tall—these tips will help make it extra special:
Layer Your Lights: Start from the trunk and work outward for a warm, even glow.
Mix Textures and Sizes: Combine ornaments in different shapes, sizes, and materials to add depth and charm.
Add a Personal Touch: Include handmade decorations or ornaments with meaning to make your tree truly unique.
How are you decorating your tree this year?
Stay safe and have a merry and bright holiday season!