If you're looking for the classic forest green, sturdy, short-needled tree, you're looking for a Noble fir or Fraser fir, which are shipped from parts elsewhere. Monterey pines have tough trunks. Trees may have been cut and placed in cold storage before shipping - ask when the most recent shipment was received. A good corner lot will stand trees in water. But if a lot of green needles fall when you shake the tree, it's drying out.
Trees drink at least a gallon of water on the first day, and a quart or two per day after that.
If the stump isn't immersed, a layer of pine sap forms within hours, and the tree won't absorb water no matter how much you give it. Keep the tree away from fireplaces, televisions and radiators - it will dry out faster and increase fire risk. Unplug lights before you leave the house or go to sleep. Swags, crafts and other decorations are there, too. The farm is east of San Diego, just north of the Mexican border.