According to the memories of some longtime residents of Cochise County, before the time of the wood-burning smelter, pine trees were abundant on our mountains and foothills.

Choosing a live Christmas tree is one way to help replace those missing pines.

The trees which have the best chance of surviving when planted outside have been growing in a container all their lives. Pines which were recently harvested from a field will probably die within the year. They have lost many crucial roots.

Pot grown specimens will be firmly anchored in their pots and may have roots growing out the drainage holes. They will be in good soil, not clay, and will not need fertilizer for about a year.

Live trees should be kept indoors for only two weeks. A good way to water them during that time is to put ice cubes in the pot on top of the soil. You won't have any spills, and the tree will get a slow, deep watering.

The types of trees that make living Christmas trees are numerous. If you know where your tree will be planted, choose it with that particular micro climate and size of space in mind. Don't pass up cedars, junipers, or cypresses when you are looking for a tree. They may be unconventional, but may also be priced well, and I can tell you from experience make lovely Christmas trees.

Sierra Vista again this year is planning to pick up and plant in public areas the live trees donated to the city. If you would like your tree to help beautify our parks, fill out a pick-up request, and pay one dollar at the time that you buy the tree.