The cut allows the tree to absorb water until it's placed in the tree stand. Fill the tree stand reservoir with water and keep it full. Place the tree in a cool spot. For many people, trees are an emotion-packed symbol of Christmases past, family traditions and childhood memories. And the right tree has to be practical, priced right and attractive, a deserving focal point for holiday decorating over several weeks.
Some consumers opt for artificial trees.
Another 35 percent of homes had fresh trees. Twenty percent of households had no tree for reasons such as not being home for the holidays or for personal or religious reasons. The Christmas tree association expects sales this season to top last year's 35.4 million. Scotch pines are on the lower end of the price scale. Here are some characteristics of the most popular holiday trees.