CHRISTMAS IN THE GARDEN
by Cliff Bennett
'Chets Garden Center'
December 3, 2014
NewsWithViews.com
Another year is behind us and what a year it was. Let’s all hope for a wet Winter with lots of snow pack in our mountains. Many of our wells could use a good rise in ground water levels. It will happen but sooner would be better than later. I am sure that you have seen the semi -trucks going up and down the freeways full of freshly cut Christmas trees. The choices seem to remain the same as years past. Noble Firs are a bit more pricy but are the prettiest and hold ornaments better than the Grand Firs or the Douglas Firs. They also have a more open appearance and are easier to decorate. The Grands and the Dougs are sheared hard for that perfect cone shape but are so full from pruning they almost look fake. The Grands have a flatter needle and smells really good like a Xmas tree should. Most think that the first ones to arrive at the store are the most fresh but that is not always true. Some were cut a while back to stage for the first shipments and are not always the best trees.
When selecting a tree always check and see if they are dropping excessive amounts of needles. If they are they are already drying out and so move on. Noble Firs hold up best and retain their moisture longer.
I think the best tree to purchase is a live tree. Lots of benefits to that. The selection of varieties is much larger. They cost a little bit more but consider the tree will last forever (hopefully). Since the tree will be planted later you will need to be sure that you select a tree that will fit long term. Some trees will grow to 80ft. so ask good questions while at the nursery. Some of your choices may not enjoy the valley heat like the Noble Firs that like higher altitudes. Live trees will also grow in value and add value to your property too.
The care for a live tree is much different than a cut while in the house. Both want to be placed away from all heat sources. Live trees need to acclimate a bit before and after. Place the live tree in garage or at least a porch for a few days before going inside and the same coming out. They are heavier to move so keep that in mind when you are looking at the biggest one on the lot. They can weigh well over one hundred pounds.I know that it seems like a lot of work but it isn’t. Most nurseries that sell trees will deliver and set up for a small fee.
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Since Poinsettias are the flower of choice during the holidays I would like to touch on a few tips to help your Poinsettia last as long as possible. Number one tip is to buy quality not the $3.00 ones from the grocery stores. A quality plant can last for months and months. Be sure not to over-water them since they hate wet feet. Keep them away from heat sources. They can dry out really fast. Give them good light and most important, keep them out of drafts like doorways and windows. Poinsettias have the bad rap of being extremely poisonous. That is not true but like many plants though are not meant to be eaten. It is the milky white saps that may give some folks a rash and can be an issue if get this sap in your eyes. Even dogs and cats are not particularly made sick if they eat leaves but some may react more than others like people. I am by no means saying to have at it but not to get overly excited if your pet eats a leaf. I am sure though that like people, some pets may be more affected than others. Best just to keep them away from children and pets. Happy Holidays.
See Ya, Cliff
� 2014 - Cliff Bennett - All Rights Reserve
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