Holiday greenery needs care, extension expert says

Proper care of holiday greenery can keep your decorations looking fresh longer, said a University of Missouri Extension horticulturist.

"Greenery and other cut plant materials brought into the home at the beginning of the season are likely to get very dry by the time New Year's Day arrives," said David Trinklein.

Dry greenery is not only less attractive, it also presents a fire hazard. Trinklein recommends obtaining the freshest greenery you can find.

"The freshest greenery comes from one's home landscape," he said. "If this is not possible, purchase greenery as soon as it comes available. Homeowners can generally take better care of greenery than the people who have an abundant inventory to care for on a sales lot." After purchasing, re-cut the stems and place the cut ends in buckets or tubs of water. Keep the plant material in the coolest place possible until it is time to move it indoors. Freezing temperatures will not harm the greenery, but unfrozen water should be available to the stems at all times during storage, Trinklein said.

Floral preservatives such as those used for cut flowers can extend life of the greenery, he said.

Change the water weekly. Water allowed to sit can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms that block vascular tissues and retard the plants' ability to take up water.

To lessen the risk of fire, place greenery away from air ducts, radiators, appliances and other heat sources.