How to Cut Christmas Tree

Benefits of a Real Tree

Firstly, they are grown locally, which helps support the economy and create jobs.

Additionally, these trees are a part of agricultural crops, providing wildlife habitat, contributing to air filtration, and preventing soil erosion.

They are also recyclable and biodegradable, meaning they can be easily disposed of after use. Many recycling programs across the US offer convenient options for recycling Christmas trees, such as turning them into mulch or using them to create sand and soil erosion barriers.

 

Forest or Farm

If you want to cut down your own tree, you have two options: go to a tree farm or venture into the woods. Going into the woods adds an extra sense of adventure, but there are factors to consider. Some areas may require a permit to cut down a tree, usually with a small fee. There might also be restrictions or specific time frames for cutting. In terms of tools, gas-powered equipment like chainsaws may not be allowed, so you’ll need to rely on axes or handsaws.

Cutting down a live tree from the forest offers several benefits. It creates more space for remaining trees to grow, reducing competition for resources like water, nutrients, and sunlight. This also makes the forest less prone to wildfires, as there is less potential fuel available.

On the other hand, choosing a Christmas tree farm supports your local community. Trees from farms are usually more uniform in size and shape. They are often grown in rows, ensuring they receive plenty of sunlight and develop a symmetrical appearance. Farm trees typically range from 3 to 10 feet in height and have an average cost of $55.

 

Tips for Cutting Your Own Tree

Find out if you need a permit.

You might want to find out if you need a permit before going into the woods to cut down your Christmas tree. It’s a good idea to check with your local Forest Service office for permit availability.

Don’t cut it too early.

I prefer waiting before decorating the tree, even though some people like to start right after Thanksgiving or their first pumpkin spice latte. The reason is that even with regular watering, real trees dry out within three weeks of cutting. So, it’s best to resist the urge to decorate too early and avoid cutting the tree too soon.

 

Measure your space before you cut.

When choosing a Christmas tree from a farm or forest, keep in mind that they come in various sizes. To avoid any disappointment, take measurements of the height from the floor to the ceiling where you plan to place the tree. This ensures that you don’t end up with a tree that’s too big for your house. Also, measure the space in your car to ensure that the tree will fit. It’s important to bring along twine, bungees, scissors, or any other items you might need to secure the tree in your car.

Read more: Artificial Christmas tree Black Friday

 

Wear the right gear

Wear the right gear while cutting down your Christmas tree to ensure safety. Put on sturdy boots, pack heavy work gloves, and avoid loose clothing. Remember, you’ll be handling blades or saws, so it’s important to prioritize your safety.

 

Use the correct tools.

The important is to use the appropriate tools. Depending on the location, there may be restrictions on what tools are allowed. For example, some tree farms and national forests prohibit the use of chainsaws, so it is a good idea to have a handsaw or axe as an alternative option.

 

Test for freshness

To determine the freshness of a Christmas tree, gently tug on the needles. If they remain intact, your tree will stay green and supple throughout the holiday season.

 

Take a walk before you decide

Before committing to a specific tree, it’s a good idea to take a full walk-through of the Christmas tree farm. These farms usually organize their trees by size or type, so it’s beneficial to explore all the options available. By doing so, you can avoid any potential regrets as you head back to your car.

 

Cut the tree low to the ground

Cutting the Christmas tree as low to the ground as possible not only makes it taller, but also allows another tree to grow and spread Christmas cheer to future tree-hunters.

 

Have someone hold it steady

Definitely get someone to hold the tree steady while you’re sawing it. It helps prevent accidents and gives you better control. And remember, don’t push the tree to make it fall over yourself. That’s not safe and it stops the tree from growing back.

 

Shake it off

Before you load your freshly cut natural Christmas tree into the car, don’t forget to give it a good shake. This will help remove any sap, freeloading bugs, and spiderwebs, ensuring that your living room remains creepy-crawly-free. You can even find tree farms that offer mechanical shakers to get the job done for a small fee.

 

Why cut your own Christmas tree

Cutting your own Christmas tree offers more options for your holiday decor. Whether you prefer a grand tree for your hallway, a compact one for a bay window, or have specific requirements for its bushiness, finding the perfect tree can be challenging at usual sellers. By cutting your own fir, you can avoid compromising and going home empty-handed. Embrace the opportunity to personalize your tree selection and create a truly unique and satisfying Christmas experience.