First, let me tell you that there are scientists out there who do controlled studies on these issues. Typically, to measure the water uptake and moisture retention rate of Christmas Trees based on different variables, they use a machine which presses the water molecules out of a small branch of a tree. Weight is measured both before and after, and the difference in weight indicates how much moisture was in the plant material. The scientists who do this are Plant Pathologists and most work at university extension research facilities.
NCTA works with these individuals and they share the results of their studies with us. This is what we base our care tips to consumers on. I only mention that so that it’s clear that our care tips are not based simply on anecdotal evidence, but rather actual scientific evidence.
OK. As for water temperature in the tree stand. We have been told from the scientists that water temperature does not have any measurable impact on either rate of water intake or moisture retention in most every species studied. The one exception that I have heard is the Blue Spruce, which has shown an increase in water uptake with hot water in the stand instead of tap temperature water. However, even that did not show consistent results.
So, because of that, we simply recommend regular temp tap water in the tree stand. No need to heat water first.
The main blog contributor is Rick Dungey, who works as Public Relations
Manager for the National Christmas Tree Association. Other people on the
NCTA staff and members of NCTA will also contribute posts. Rick has
answered media and consumer inquiries for NCTA for more than 9 years. You
are welcome to send responses or questions to the blog, but be aware that
not all posts will be made public and all will be reviewed prior to
posting.
We look forward to your input – if you have a question or comment to share, send it to info@realchristmastrees.org
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