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Real
Christmas trees, reminiscent of a nearly 500-year-old
German tradition, sometimes have a reputation for being
flammable, harmful to nature, messy or the cause of
allergic reactions.
Those
notions mostly are myths.
If chosen and cared for correctly, trees are "no more
flammable than a fresh flower".
Fewer
than 0.001 percent of real Christmas trees have been
involved in a fire, according to the National Fire Protection
Association.
For
more information, read:
Help
Real Christmas Trees Last Through the Holidays
Caring
for Your Tree:
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If you cut the tree yourself you know the tree is
fresh. But if you do not cut your own tree, be sure
to ask when the tree was cut and check it closely
for drying needles.
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The
stump of your Christmas tree should be cut fresh
before placing the tree in the tree stand.
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Keep
an adequate supply of fresh water covering this
fresh cut at all times. Check the water level daily,
and refill when needed.
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Do
not place the tree near a heat vent, wood stove
or fireplace.
Recycle
Your Tree after Christmas:
Chop
the trunk into firewood or use the branches to make
mulch over dormant perennials.
You
can also place the tree near your bird feeders. Decorate
with suet cakes and pine cones rolled in suet and bird
seed. Not only will the birds enjoy the winter treats,
but the tree will provide protection from harsh winter
winds and predators like neighborhood cats and hawks.
For
more tips, read Holiday
Safety for Your Home
MORE:
Making
Your Own Suet Feeders
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