Preserving Your Christmas Tree
Fortunately, there is a way to avoid the yearly untimely demise of the Christmas tree. In the space of moments you can ensure a longer-lasting tree less likely to litter your carpet with toe-spearing needles. Simply by removing the bottom 2" of the trunk before placing the tree in the stand you enable your tree to absorb water. Then by using a special solution (see recipe) for every other watering you can keep the tree soft and fresh. Remember, however, to NEVER, NEVER let the water reservoir go dry.  

Tree Preserving Solution
1 T Bleach
1 C White Corn Syrup
1 Gal Hot Water
Boil water; stir in corn syrup and
Bleach. Let cool slightly.
Add to Tree reservoir every other Watering

The Other Greens
Besides the familiar Christmas tree, wreath and garland, the other greens of Christmas are holly (ilex) and mistletoe (phoradendron). During Roman times, holly was a symbol of peace and goodwill. In England, people believed it would bring good luck and serve as protection from witches. Holly is a borderline evergreen in Colorado, needing winter protection. Both female and male specimens must be planted to gain the attractive red berries. Growth of mistletoe is parasitic on trees and was misunderstood because it was not ‘of the earth.’ As a result it was considered mysterious and even sacred. It was used in the Middle Ages to protect households from evil spirits, thunder and lightning. From the beliefs of the Scandinavians that it was a symbol of peace comes our custom of kissing under the mistletoe. There are no recommended growing practices for mistletoe in Colorado. Actually, if you do have it growing, the State Forester would like to know about it!

Winter Tree Care Guidelines
Winter care of trees should include a monthly watering of approximately 7 – 10 gallons of water per inch of diameter when temperatures reach 40 to 50 degrees. Deciduous trees can benefit greatly when trunks are protected with a tree wrap. This inexpensive product should be applied from the bottom branch to the ground during the winter months and removed in the spring. If you have questions, call Phelan Gardens at 574-8058.

Shaking the Myth—Poinsettias Are Not Poisonous
A recent study at Ohio State University came to the conclusion the poinsettia does not cause adverse effects even after administering large amounts to rats. Of course, reasonable care should always be taken around all plants. Keep in mind that people have different sensitivities to their environment and may find certain plants irritating to their skin or digestive system. While it is not advised to dine on these or any other non-edible plants, should your child or dog munch on a leaf, don’t panic. Keep an eye on the culprit and call your physician or veterinarian if you have concerns.

Location, Location, Location!
Location is critical in matching the light requirements (low, medium, or high) preferred by a particular plant. Determine the intensity of the light by holding your hand 12" above a white sheet of paper in the area in need of plants. If the shadow cast is sharp and distinctive, your location is considered high light (southwestern windows). If the shadow is evident but slightly fuzzy, lighting is considered medium (northeastern window or ten feet back from a high light window). If no shadow is cast, this indicates low light (north facing windows and interior corners). Select plants appropriate for the lighting in your environment.

LOW LIGHT— aglaonemas, aspidistra, dieffenbachia, fern varieties, philodendron, and schefflera arboricola

MEDIUM LIGHT— aralias, begonias, dracaena, ficus varieties, New Guinea impatiens, palm varieties, and schefflera arboricola

HIGH LIGHT— bromeliads, coleus, gardenias, hibiscus, and tradescantia

Stop by Phelan Gardens to see our complete selection of Indoor Foliage and to get advice for growing Indoor Foliage from our professional staff.

For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members.  Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!