Dear Mary Beth: Does it help to add a Christmas tree preservative to the water in the tree stand?
Dear Reader: Research shows it's not necessary to add a tree preservative to the water, according to Eric McConnell, forest product specialist with the Ohio State University Extension. It won't keep the tree fresh longer than plain water.
It is more important not to let the cut end get dry in the stand, because then it will seal over with resin and lose its ability to take up water, McConnell said. Slice about a half-inch off the bottom of the trunk just before putting it in the stand, and use a stand that can hold plenty of water. McConnell said the stand should contain one litre of water for each inch of trunk diameter, and you should always keep at least about four litres of water in the stand.
Because the part of the tree that takes up water is just below the bark, don't trim the outside of the trunk to fit the tree into the stand.
Talking of Christmas trees, a Maestro Mouse on your tree can be synchronized with tree lights for a musical light show. The ornament responds to voice commands to play Christmas songs. It sells for $39.97 at Home Depot stores.
Online: www.homedepot.com.
