By Blake Carter and Drew Greene

Hey Effingham County! It’s officially time for the best part of the year: Christmas time! The decorations, the joy, and the reason for the season bring families and communities together like at no other time of the year.

One of my favorite ways to spend time with my family is by going and picking out a Christmas tree from a local Christmas tree farm such as Rahn Farms right here in Springfield. Going and picking that perfect tree and getting it home to decorate is so much fun, but how are you supposed to take care of that big ol’ thing so it makes it long enough for Santa to come?

Let's slow down for a second. While you're at the farm and looking for a tree, here are a few things to think about: Where are you going to put the tree? When you’re outside looking, trees can look a lot smaller than what they actually are, so make sure that the tree you intend on getting actually fits. To add to that, you should also keep in mind the added height from tree toppers and the stand you’ll be placing it in. Also make sure that the tree you select has a full canopy, and if it doesn’t, try to hide that imperfection by placing the tree against a wall or in a corner.

Now that you have your tree picked out, what do you do when you get it home? If you don’t plan on taking it inside right away, try to put the tree in a shady place in the meantime. Before placing the tree into its stand make a cut about a half inch above the original cut exposing fresh tissue allowing the tree to absorb water easier. Once you get the tree in the stand, keep it hydrated with water.  It is surprising how much water your tree needs to stay alive.

Finally, you want to prevent any kind of accident from happening. To do this, place your tree away from space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves. Electric lights and extension cords should be thoroughly checked for safety and defects prior to use. Frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections can all be a fire hazard.

With a little planning and preparation, getting your own Christmas tree is one of the best ways to spend time with family and enjoy the Christmas season. If you have any questions, suggestions, or want further information, please give me a call at or stop by the Effingham County Extension Office, , 601 N. Laurel St., Springfield; or call (912)754-8040

Joke of the day: Why can’t Christmas trees sew? Because they always drop their needles!