We asked tree grower Clarke J. Gernon Sr., a spokesman for the National Christmas Tree Association, for advice on how to prepare your tree for its stand. Here's what he suggested.
By John Deiner, The Washington Post

• If it's been a while since the tree was cut down, recut the base to put the tree's vascular system in contact with water.


• Be sure to stand the tree in a bucket of water while it's waiting to be brought into the house.


• Don't whittle the base if the tree stand doesn't fit; that makes it harder for the tree to absorb water. Get a larger stand.

• Trim the lower branches if they prevent you from getting the trunk firmly planted in the base; cut limbs flush with the trunk, as you would if you were pruning a plant.


• Don't make a career out of setting the tree up. Get the job done before it dries out again.

Knockin' Around the Christmas Tree

To survive the annual struggle, first find the right stand.

• Tips: Cutting Your Own
• D.C. Area Tree Farms