When the tree arrives, make a fresh one inch cut on the butt end and place the tree in a bucket of warm water.

If you are not putting the tree up right away store it in an unheated garage or some other area out of the wind and cold (freezing) temperatures.

Place the tree in a sturdy stand that holds at least one gallon of water, or a rule of thumb is one quart of water for every inch of diameter of the trunk.

Be sure to keep the tree well waterd. and above the base of the tree. If the base dries out resin will form over the cut end and the tree will not be able to absorb water and will dry out quickly.

Check all Christmas tree lights for worn electrical cords. Use UL approved electrical decorations and cords. Unplug tree lights at night.

Miniature lights produce less heat and reduce the drying effect on the tree.

It can be a nuisance to water a Christmas tree once it's decorated with a tree skirt and surrounded by presents, but it doesn't have to be. We offer an "Auto Stop" watering system that makes this hassle free.

If properly cared for, a Merwine Reserve fresh cut tree will last at least five weeks before drying out.

Recycle your tree after Christmas. Many communities will pick up trees and turn them into chips.