Christmas tree sense

Watch the video above: There are some tips to picking out the perfect Christmas tree and decorating it for the season

SASKATOON – Nothing says Christmas like the scent of a freshly cut tree but for some, the idea of picking a live tree can be daunting.

The first thing to keep in mind is deciding on the type of tree. One of the most fragrant is the Balsam Fir while the Fraser Fir has a blue tinge in the pines and is also compact for small spaces.

Dave Van Duyvendyk, a manager at Dutch Growers in Saskatoon, says this year the Nordmann Christmas tree is becoming one of the most popular choices.

When purchasing a tree, it should be bright green with a strong fragrance, have very few needles that fall when the stump is tapped on the ground and have sticky resin on the stump.

It is also important to hydrate the trees and make sure the stand can hold up to nine litres of water.

“You cut an inch off the bottom of the tree and what that will do is open up the pores so the tree can drink,” said Van Duyvendyk.

The stump should be cut at a 45 degree angle to maximize the area absorbing water and it should be re-cut if the water level goes below the stump.

That will ensure the tree can be enjoyed for at least three weeks.

Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services officials say although uncommon, a Christmas tree fire can be devastating without following some safety tips.

Watch the video above: incredible speed of a live Christmas tree fire

A tree should be placed at least three feet away from a fireplace, heat register or television and never placed in front of an entrance.

A tree should also be thrown out if it dries out and should not be stored inside a residence, garage or left leaning outside on a building.

The City of Saskatoon offers Christmas tree recycling starting on Boxing Day to the end of January.