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17 | Wednesday, December 4, 2013 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Ontario Christmas trees great choice for the season Real trees have been synonymous with Christmas for centuries. In addition to creating lasting memories associated with the hunt, decoration and enjoyment of this natural beauty, real Christmas trees are actually good for the environment ­ before and after they're cut. "Christmas trees are grown as crops on tree farms, similar to an agricultural crop," says Shirley Brennan, executive director of the Christmas Tree Farmers of Ontario (CTFO). "Not all trees are harvested at the same time, allowing for continuous habitat for wildlife, retention of soil and water and prevention of seasonal runoff. And when trees are harvested, new seedlings are planted to grow trees for future holiday seasons. So there's a continuum of trees growing at all times." Christmas tree farms soak up carbon dioxide emitted by cars, planes and homes. Every acre (about 0.4 hectares) of planted Christmas trees provides the daily oxygen needed by 18 people. Natural Christmas trees are 100 per cent biodegradable and can be recycled. Many municipalities collect the trees after the holiday season to chip them for use as mulch in municipal parks. David Orazietti, Ontario's Minister of Natural Resources, says in buying a locally grown Christmas tree, either direct from a tree farm or from a retail vendor, Ontarians are helping to support businesses in their community and by extension, the economy of Ontario. And because of their proximity to the purchaser, a locally grown tree is likely to be fresher than one imported from outside the province, says Orazietti. "All in all, consumers can feel good about buying a Christmas tree grown close to home." Everyone has a favourite. Whether it be a fir, pine or spruce, Ontario Christmas tree farmers offer up a range of evergreens. Choosing one really comes down to personal preference, physical requirements, budget and availability. Before you and your family venture out in search of that "perfect" tree, arm yourself with some important information and tools: · Consider where in your home you'll display your tree. Grab a tape measure and record the height and width available for a tree and size of your door frames. Bring the tape measure with you to ensure an accurately-sized tree is chosen. · Dress for the weather (layered clothes are best) and bring snacks and fluids as the hunt could take longer than expected. · If heading to a tree farm, confirm any hay rides or other fun activities offered at the farm to add to the overall experience for your family. The trees closest to the parking lot tend to get picked over first. You may have better luck further into the field. · Check for freshness. Pick a tree with strong green colour and a noticeable fragrance. The needles should be resilient. To check this, slip a branch through your fingers ­ the needles should adhere to the branch. If bent gently, an unfrozen needle from a fresh tree should form a "u" shape without breaking. · When it's time to make the first cut, ensure you're on a level line. Allow for enough trunk length to be secured in your tree stand, and always saw away from your body to avoid injury. Ontario Wood encourages Ontarians to purchase madein-Ontario wood products, including locally grown Christmas trees. To ensure you're purchasing an Ontario grown Christmas tree, look for the Ontario Wood tag or simply ask the retail vendor where their trees were sourced. To find a Christmas tree farm closest to you, go to christmastrees. on.ca. Caring for your tree at home · Store the tree in a sheltered but unheated area such as a porch or garage. When you're ready to bring the tree indoors, make a straight cut across the trunk about two centimetres from its end, enabling the tree to better absorb water. · Once inside, place a tree-moving bag at the base of your tree to allow for easy disposal in January and secure the tree in its stand. · Place your tree away from any heat sources, including fireplaces, television sets and radiators, to prevent it from drying prematurely. Free Pass Valid for onsite ticket purchase on Wednesday, December 4, 2013 ONLY Bring a friend for free!* * WITH THE PURCHASE OF ONE FULL PRICE ADULT ADMISSION, RECEIVE A 2ND ADULT ADMISSION FOR FREE. NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OR OFFER. VALID FOR ONSITE TICKET PURCHASES ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2013 ONLY. CODE: BEAVER 2FOR1 On Now! Shop For Fashion Flavours Home Décor Kids' Toys & Clothing Jewellery Furniture Art Free Fashion Shows Free Childcare Free Re-Admission Toy train by Benoit Emond & Chantal Thibodeau Made in St-Roch Des Aulnaies, QC Weekdays & Saturdays 10am­9pm Sundays 10am­6pm