The age old debate about which is better, a real Christmas tree or an artificial one, will likely go on forever but there are tips available for those wanting a live tree.

First of all, live trees should be set up in a place that is away from heat sources such as a fireplace or radiator and of course size is also important.

The Iowa State Extension Office recommends choosing a tree that has a straight trunk with a trunk that will fit correctly in your stand.

To determine the freshness of a cut Christmas tree, run your hand over a branch.  The needles should be bendable, if they are brittle it’s likely the tree is beginning to dry out.  You can also lightly bounce the tree off the ground and pay attention to how many needles fall off.  A fresh tree will only lose a few needles.

Fresh trees should be watered twice a day and if property taken care of, they can last in the home for three to four weeks.