
Many families honor the time-held tradition of selecting a live Christmas tree. I look forward to it every year! Choosing my own tree got me thinking about the history of the Christmas tree and its origins as part of the holiday season in the United States.
We have 16th-century Christians from Germany to thank for bringing their custom of indoor decorated trees to the United States. While some decorated wood pyramids with evergreen branches and candles, it is believed that Protestant Reformer Martin Luther took things a step further. In an effort to replicate the twinkling stars of the night sky, Luther purportedly added candles to an actual evergreen tree.
While Christmas may look a bit different this year, we can still capture the beauty of the season with a decorated live tree. Join me, along with our real estate agents, in another year of observing this heartwarming tradition with a tree from one of these great sources around Morgantown.
- Mulkeen Landscaping - 743 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Independence, WV 26374
For more than 30 years, Mulkeen Landscaping has been a top tree service in Morgantown. So it's not too surprising that they would operate a popular Christmas tree farm just 30 minutes away from Morgantown. With 10 acres of trees, including white pine, Canaan fir, and blue spruce, you'll have no problem finding the perfect one. Your family will also have fun following the Christmas Tree Farm Book Trail throughout the grounds, sponsored by the Morgantown Public Library. Kids will enjoy finding pages from the book, "The Biggest Christmas Tree Ever," starting with the 30-foot decorated "biggest tree ever" right on the property. Whether it's big or small, any cut-your-own tree is $45. Live-dug, ready-to-plant trees are $15/foot. The farm is open during daylight hours until Christmas Eve.
- French Creek Christmas Trees - 943 Beechtown Rd., French Creek, WV 26218
Choosing a tree at French Creek Christmas Trees is truly a family affair. Bring Fido and the kids along to share some quality time out in the fresh air and sunshine. Make sure the kids fill out their wish list and drop it off in the farm's "Santa Mail." The little ones will also enjoy receiving complimentary coloring books and candy canes. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
- Berry Fork Enterprises - 130 Berry Fork Rd., Heaters, WV 26627
Do you have your heart set on a majestic spruce tree? Maybe you're a fan of pine or fir. Whatever type of Christmas tree you prefer, you'll find it at Berry Fork Enterprises. Deck your front door in some holiday finery with a beautiful wreath, starting at just $30. Kids love the chance to pick out their own "Charlie Brown" tree for some special TLC. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through December 20.
How to Care for a Live Christmas Tree
Get the most from your live Christmas tree with these TLC tips my family and I use.
- Once you select your tree, keep it in a sheltered, unheated area until you're ready to bring it indoors.
- Use a tree stand that holds at least one gallon of water.
- Recut the tree about an inch above the base so water will be absorbed more readily.
- Place the tree in a corner or other area of the room that's not traveled by people or pets. Be sure to steer clear of fireplaces, heaters, and other sources that may cause dryness. Clear a space large enough to allow a buffer around the perimeter of the tree.
- Check water levels every day. If the level drops below the base, a layer of sap will dry over it, preventing the stump from absorbing moisture.
Make some new holiday memories in one of the spectacular Morgantown homes for sale. Contact us at Heritage Real Estate to get started.