Douglas Fir Christmas Trees: A Tradition Rooted in History
The Douglas fir, scientifically known as Pseudotsuga menziesii, is an evergreen conifer species native to western North America. Named after Scottish botanist David Douglas, who sent the first seed from North America back to Britain in 1827, the Douglas fir has a rich history that intertwines with our own.
A Christmas Tradition
Since the 1920s, the Douglas fir has been the major Christmas tree species used in the Pacific Northwest. During the following 40 years, nearly all trees were harvested from forest lands. Since the 1950s, however, the transformation from growing trees in the wild to culturing them on plantations has been dramatic.
Douglas fir trees are popular as Christmas trees for several reasons. They have soft needles that are dark green – blue green in color and are approximately 1 – 1 ½ in. in length. The needles radiate in all directions from the branch and when crushed, they have a sweet fragrance. These characteristics make them an ideal choice for a traditional Christmas tree.
Beyond Christmas: The Uses of Douglas Fir
But the uses of Douglas fir extend beyond just Christmas trees. They are important timber trees, and their strong wood is used in boats, aircraft, and construction. The wood is also used for furniture, poles, fences, and flooring.
In addition to these practical uses, Douglas firs were used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. They were used to cure ailments such as stomach aches, headaches, rheumatism, and the common cold. Native Americans also used Douglas firs for building and basketry.
From its historical significance to its modern-day uses, the Douglas fir is more than just a Christmas tree. It’s a symbol of tradition and utility, bringing joy during the holiday season and serving various purposes throughout the year.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Down a Douglas Fir Christmas Tree
Cutting down your own Christmas tree can be a rewarding, festive activity. The Douglas fir, with its sweet-smelling, dark green-blue needles, is a popular choice for Christmas trees. Here’s how to safely cut one down using a hand saw.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you begin, make sure you’re dressed appropriately. Wear sturdy boots to protect your feet and heavy work gloves to protect your hands from the saw and the tree’s needles. Avoid loose clothing that could get caught in the saw. Safety goggles are a good idea to protect your eyes from any falling needles.
Step 2: Choose Your Tree
Walk around the tree to make sure it’s healthy and the right shape from all angles. Check that the tree is not too tall for your space. Remember, you’ll need to add a tree stand and a tree topper!
Step 3: Plan Your Cut
You’ll want to make your cut as close to the ground as possible. This is not only for aesthetics but also because some tree farms will let another tree grow from the stump. Look at which way the tree is naturally leaning, as it will likely fall in that direction.
Step 4: Start Sawing
Place your hand saw at your cutting point. Using short, steady strokes, start sawing through the trunk. Take your time and don’t rush this process.
Step 5: Apply Gentle Pressure
As you near the end of your cut, have a helper gently pull the tree in the direction you want it to fall. This can help prevent the weight of the tree from pinching your saw blade.
Step 6: Make Your Final Cuts
Once the tree starts to fall, remove your saw and step back quickly but carefully. Once the tree is down, make any additional cuts necessary to fit the tree into your stand at home.
Cutting down your own Douglas fir Christmas tree can be a fun and rewarding way to kick off the holiday season. Remember these steps and safety tips, and you’ll have a beautiful Christmas tree that’s ready for decorating.
Safely Transporting Your Douglas Fir Christmas Tree: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing and cutting down your own Douglas fir Christmas tree can be a delightful holiday tradition. But once you’ve found the perfect tree, how do you get it home safely? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you transport your tree without damaging it—or your vehicle.
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle
Before you head to the farm, make sure your vehicle is ready. Using a vehicle with a roof rack will prevent the tree from laying directly on the paint surface to scratch it. If not, an SUV, van, or pickup truck will also work. If you’re using a car, you might be able to fit a smaller tree inside. Just remember to lay down a tarp or blanket to protect the interior from sap and needles.
Step 2: Wrap the Tree
At the Hamlen Tree Farm we will wrap your Christmas tree free of charge. The netting with keep the branches compact and makes the tree easier to handle.
Step 3: Position the Tree Correctly
When placing the tree on your vehicle, position it with the stump towards the front of the car. This reduces wind damage while you’re driving.
Step 4: Secure the Tree
Secure the tree to your vehicle using strong rope, at the Hamlen Tree Farm we will provide you bailer twine. Start by opening all your car doors—not just the windows—and loop the rope over and around the tree and through the car doors. If you have a roof rack, secure the tree at its bottom, center, and top.
Step 5: Do a Final Check
Before you drive off, give the tree a good tug to make sure it’s secure. Check that it’s not blocking your view or any of your vehicle’s lights or number plates.
Step 6: Drive Carefully
Drive slowly and avoid highways if possible. The extra wind can damage your tree and make driving more difficult.
Transporting your Douglas fir Christmas tree home doesn’t have to be a hassle. With some preparation and these steps, you’ll have your tree home safely and ready for decorating.
Caring for Your Cut Christmas Tree
The holiday season is synonymous with the tradition of decorating a cut Christmas tree. However, to keep your tree looking fresh and vibrant throughout the season, it’s important to take proper care of it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to take care of your fresh cut Douglas fir Christmas tree.
Step 1: Make a Fresh Cut
Before you set up your tree, make a fresh cut straight across the trunk about an inch from the bottom. The reason for this is that when a tree is cut, it produces sap that seals its pores. By making a fresh cut, you’re removing the sap seal and allowing the tree to take up water.
Step 2: Water Your Tree
Immediately after making the fresh cut, place your tree in water. The tree will absorb most of the water during the first few hours and days. Check the water level daily and make sure it doesn’t go below the base of the tree. A good rule of thumb is to provide one quart of water per inch of stem diameter. It’s also important to use a stand that fits your tree. Avoid striping off the bark to make the tree fit into a stand. The outer layers of wood transport the water up the trunk of the tree to support the branches and needles, do not remove it.
Step 3: Choose the Right Location
Place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, heating vents, and direct sunlight. These can dry out your tree faster. The location should also be easily accessible but not block any exits or pathways. For safety reasons, it should be kept away from open flames or heat sources.
Step 4: Keep Your Home Cool
If possible, try to keep your home’s temperature on the cooler side. Heat and dry air can take a toll on a living pine tree. Consider using a humidifier in the room where you place your Christmas tree; this can help slow down the drying process.
Step 5: Use Miniature Lights
Miniature lights produce less heat and reduce the drying effect on the tree or any potential fire hazard. When stringing the tree with lights, make sure to look for small exposed wires and missing bulbs before placing them on the tree. If worn, replace with a new set. Do not overload electrical circuits.
Step 6: Dispose of Your Tree Properly
After Christmas, don’t leave or store your tree in your home or garage. Take advantage of a local Christmas tree recycling programs. Douglas fir trees have a lot of sap, burning the Christmas tree in your home could spark a fire as the sticky sap snaps and pops.