Evergreens were a staple of the winter season long before Christmas trees became so iconic a symbol of the Christian holiday. Ancient civilizations used pine, spruce, and fir tree boughs as decorative household items, displaying them above doors and windows, and many believed evergreens would help deter witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illnesses. From the ancient Egyptians to the Early Romans, greenery was regarded as a symbol of life in the dead of winter.
Just because Christmas is over, that doesn’t mean you need to toss the tree just yet! Check out these fun facts about the Christmas tree, and see below for our tips on caring for your tree:
Did you Know…?
- Germany supposedly launched the modern-day Christmas tree tradition in the 16th century when pious Christians brought evergreens into their homes to decorate in celebration of the Nativity.
- Though long established in Europe, Christmas trees didn’t begin making a debut in America until the 1830s, when German settlers in Pennsylvania were busy settling their communities.
- The 14th president of the United States, Franklin Pierce, was the first to introduce the Christmas tree to the White House, and in 1923, President Calvin Coolidge launched the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony that takes place every year on the White House lawn.
- Though Christmas trees are only used for one month of the year, they take 6-8 years to mature.
- Around 34-36 million Christmas trees are produced every year, with 95% shipped or sold from Christmas tree farms.
Christmas Tree Care
- Try to purchase a fresh-cut tree, as many of the trees shipped to suppliers are cut weeks before they’re put up for sale.
- Before setting up your tree, saw a couple of inches off of the trunk, which opens the base and helps the plant to absorb water.
- Freshly cut trees can drink up a gallon of water in 24 hours, so be sure to water consistently – a good rule of thumb is to never let the water dip below the base.
- Keep your tree away from heat sources; it will thrive better in a cooler environment.
Enjoy your Christmas tree or holiday bush: Lehnhoff’s Landscaping wishes you a happy holiday season!
The expert Maryland landscapers at Lehnhoff’s can help make your season bright by providing landscape design, hardscape features and construction, water features, landscape elements, outdoor lighting, and property management. We can bring a little green to your landscape to compliment your red and green holiday decorations this time of year!
To learn more, contact Lehnhoff’s Landscaping by calling 443.921.5789 or visit LehnoffsLandscaping.com today!
Help up grow! Follow Lehnhoff’s Landscaping on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+
Sources: