If you haven’t done so already, time is running out to pick that perfect Christmas tree. Barbara H Smith is a horticulture specialist with Clemson University Extension, and she says the tradition of decorating the modern tree goes back almost 200 years.

“The Christmas tree, as we know it, was first introduced by Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, to celebrate the holidays during the mid-19th century, soon that tradition came across the pond to America, and Christmas trees became a staple in households here.”

Smith gives some tips on what to look for to get just the right one for your home.

“For example, with a Fraser fir, these grow best in more northern climates and cooler temperatures and rainfall, and in looking for a tree, when you’re choosing it, especially one that has already been cut, you want to make sure that you take your hand gently run it down the branch of the tree, to make sure that no needles come off in your Hand. Another easy way is to take the tree, bend the needles, and the needles will spring back if the tree is a nice fresh cut tree.”

Once you have it you want it to make it home in good shape.

“Most of the choosing cut trees farms will net the tree, making it easier for transportation. It’s extremely important that when you do set the tree on the top of your vehicle, is to point the trunk toward the front of the tree, so the wind flow goes over the foliage to prevent excessive drying out.”

Smith says to keep it away from all heat sources and water it regularly to keep it fresh throughout the holidays, but once the season has passed, what do you do with it?

“Then the best way for people to dispose of their trees at the end of the holiday season is to recycle. There are many local government plans that will offer landfill sites where you can drop off your trees to be ground either up for mulch or to be put into public lakes in order to increase your fish habitat.”