| 17 December 2003
The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time for Christmas trees and other holiday plants. Here are a few care tips and suggestions for your holiday greenery.
- Christmas trees - There are a few important things to know about selecting and caring for your Christmas tree. You should first consider freshness, and don't get your tree any sooner than you have to. Make a fresh cut across the bottom of the trunk, to open up the pores in the wood, allowing it to absorb water readily. The tree should be immediately set in the stand. Check it frequently and re-water as necessary. Do not let the tree dry out! Keep your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators and television sets. Make sure that all of your light cords are in good shape, and be sure to unplug the lights before leaving them unattended. The freshest Christmas tree will be one that is still living. Living trees take extra care, or they may not survive to be planted in the yard. It should be set it in a cool location, out of direct sunlight, and away from any heat sources. Watering is essential. Moisten the soil completely before you bring the tree indoors. Keep it moist the entire time that the plant is kept in the home.
- Christmas Cactus - Place in a bright but indirectly lit window. Keep moist but not soggy during growth and flowering. At other times, allow drying between watering. This makes an excellent year-round houseplant in or out of bloom. Under normal conditions, the holiday cacti will bloom close to the holiday suggested by its name.
- Christmas tree topiary - Made with ivies. They require a medium amount of light, and need to be evenly moist, but not wet. Allow them to dry out a little in between watering. These are very susceptible to spider mites. If your “tree” is dropping a significant amount of leaves, this is a very likely culprit. You can find pesticides to treat them in stores, or you may use home remedies. Our favorite is rubbing alcohol mixed with water. (50/50) Spray the plant very thoroughly, especially in all of the nooks and crannies!