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December 6, 2000 Traditions
- Old and New Christmas traditions are great as we know them. Take time this holiday season to establish a holiday tradition for people who are less fortunate. Adopt a family or child, volunteer at a homeless shelter and give of your time to help those in need. After all, there are too many people in this world who will never get to experience the type of holiday traditions that you and I celebrate. The drought continues so don't forget to water when it is warm enough to do so. Everything is quite dry so be sure to give the grass, bulbs and shrubs a really good soaking.
Minding
The Mums... Good
Winter Reading... Worm
Wisdom... Christmas
Tree Care... Your tree should have a fresh cut across the bottom, about 1 inch above the old base. This removes any clogged wood that may not readily absorb water. Next, it should be placed in a stand with a large reservoir of water. Depending upon the size, species, and location of the tree, it may absorb a gallon of water in the first day, so it should be checked frequently and re-watered as necessary. Although some people advocate placing various substances in the water to preserve freshness, we recommend that you just keep the tree well-watered with regular tap water. It is important that the tree always be kept watered and not allowed to dry out. If the tree does become dried out, it may not be able to adequately absorb moisture once it is re-watered, and it will shed its needles prematurely. A good rule of thumb is to treat a green Christmas tree just like a fresh bouquet of cut flowers. Your Christmas tree should be located in a safe place, preferably near a wall or corner where it is not likely to be knocked over. Keeping the tree away from heat sources such as hot air ducts, wood stoves, fireplaces, etc., will help to preserve freshness and lessen fire danger. Similarly, light cords and connections used in decorating the tree should be in good working condition. Lights should always be turned off at bedtime or when leaving for an extended period of time. Fresh, well-watered Christmas trees do not represent a fire hazard. Trees that are dried out, however, do. The best fire retardant is to keep the tree supplied with plenty of water. Branches
For Boxes... Winter
Wisdom... Have you noticed all those leaves still on the trees? Find out why they're still there in this week's Winter Wisdom... Put
Aside Those Pesticides... Store liquid pesticides where temperatures will not fall below 40F. Too low a temperature may result in a breakdown of the chemical. Also, if the liquid should freeze, there is the danger of the glass container breaking and scattering the chemical in the storage area. Finally... ~ Katherine S. White, American garden writer, 1892-1977 |
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