December 2006

Prune small trees and shrubs. Since the leaves have fallen, it is much easier to see the branch structure. Be sure to prune any dead or diseased branches because these could be prime areas for insect infestation next spring. Remember to avoid pruning shrubs that will bloom from early spring to early June, because pruning would remove most of the flower buds. Prune those shrubs a couple of weeks after flowering.

Turn your Christmas tree into a bird-feeding station.  Set the tree on the east or south side of the house to avoid the winter winds. Decorate the tree with strings of popcorn, raisins or cranberries. The popcorn will attract cardinals and finches. The cranberries will attract wintering robins and finches. You can also attach pine cones to the tree smeared with peanut butter and rolled in birdseed. If you decide to start feeding the birds, continue to do so throughout the winter. The birds will come to depend on your food for a portion of their diet and may die without it, especially during very cold and snowy weather. For a fact sheet on feeding birds, call 773-233-0476.

Poinsettias are the traditional holiday plant. Consider the following points when purchasing a poinsettia.

• Choose a plant with dark green foliage down to the soil line.
• Choose bracts (modified leaves) that are completely colored.
• Do not purchase poinsettias with a lot of green around the bract edges.
• Do not choose plants with fallen or yellowed leaves.
• The poinsettia should look full, balanced and attractive from all sides.
• The plant should be 2 1/2 times taller than the diameter of the container.
• Choose plants that are not drooping or wilting.
• Do not purchase plants that are displayed in paper or plastic sleeves. Plants held in sleeves will deteriorate quickly.
• Do not purchase plants that have been displayed or crowded close together. Crowding can cause premature bract loss.
• Check the plant’s soil. If it’s wet and the plant is wilted, this could be an indication of root rot.
• Check the poinsettia’s maturity. Check the true flowers which are located at the base of the colored bracts. If the flowers are green or red-tipped and fresh looking the bloom will "hold" longer than if yellow pollen is covering the flowers.
• When you take the poinsettia home, be sure to have it sleeved or covered when outdoor temperatures are below 50°F.

Storing firewood properly will insure a dry and rot-free supply of wood for the fireplace. Consider the following pointers when storing firewood outdoors.

• Store wood in a sunny, exposed location. Firewood stored in a shady area near buildings or shrubs and vegetation will deteriorate quickly.
• Place firewood on a rack that will allow air movement on the bottom and sides of the woodpile. Firewood that is allowed to come in contact with soil will decay and rot.
• Half or quarter large pieces of wood. This will speed up the seasoning process.
• Do not stack wood against the side of your house or garage. Termites and other insects may attack the wood and find a way into your home.

There is still time to find the “perfect” Christmas tree at a local “Cut Your Own” Christmas tree farm. For a free listing of local farms, call 773-233-0476 or check out the University of Illinois Extension “Christmas Trees & More” website at www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/trees.