For Immediate Release
December 4, 2009
(607) 272-2292
Christmas Tree Tips and Local Grower List from Cooperative Extension
Consumers who wish to purchase freshly-cut Christmas
trees for the holidays can choose from 14 local farms now listed on
the Tompkins County Cooperative Extension website at:
<http://www.ccetompkins.org/>www.ccetompkins.org.
The list includes U-cut tree farms in Ithaca, Danby,
Groton, Lansing, Newfield, Trumansburg, Berkshire and Spencer. In
addition to a variety of pre-cut or U-cut trees, some farms also
offer potted live trees; fresh roping, swags and wreaths; handmade
crafts; and refreshments and wagon rides to make your holiday visit
memorable. There are also tips on the CCE-Tompkins web site on how
to care for your live tree and to plant it successfully.
New York has approximately 1,800 acres of Christmas
trees and ranks fifth nationally in Christmas tree
production. Buying a locally-grown tree helps to sustain local
farmers, keeps land open and productive, and strengthens our local economy.
The following tips from the Christmas Tree Farmers
Association of New York will help your fresh-cut, locally-grown tree
look good throughout the holidays. 1. After bringing the tree home,
cut one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. Keep the tree
outdoors in a container of water and protect it from the wind and sun
until you're ready to decorate. This helps the tree retain
moisture. 2. Before you bring the tree indoors, make another fresh
cut of at least one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. This
reopens the tree stem so it can take water immediately. Place it in a
stand with fresh water. Do not allow the water level to drop below
the fresh cut or the stem will reseal. 3. Remember, trees are very
thirsty and may drink from 2 pints to 1 gallon of water a day. Use a
stand with 1-gallon capacity or more. Keep your tree away from drying
heat sources such as sunny windows, hot air ducts and fireplaces.
Check the water level daily and supply fresh water as needed.
Additional interesting Christmas tree facts, history, and
tips for selection and care, can be found on the University of
Illinois Cooperative Extension site at:
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/trees/treefacts.html
_______________________________________________
For more information about sustainability in the Tompkins County area, please
visit: http://www.sustainabletompkins.org/
RSS, archives, subscription & listserv information for:
[email protected]
http://lists.mutualaid.org/mailman/listinfo/sustainabletompkins
Questions about the list? ask [email protected]
free hosting by http://www.mutualaid.org
