Before you set up your tree, make a fresh, straight cut across the base of the trunk (about a quarter inch up from the original cut) and place the tree in a tree stand that holds a gallon of water or more.

Warning: Keep the tree stand filled with water. A seal of dried sap will form over the cut stump in four to six hours if the water drops below the base of the tree, preventing the tree from absorbing water later when the tree stand is refilled. If a seal does form, another fresh cut will need to be made.

A tree will absorb as much as a gallon of water or more in the first 24 hours and one or more quarts a day thereafter. Water is important because it prevents the needles from drying and dropping off and the boughs from drooping. Water also keeps the tree fragrant.

In addition, keep your tree away from heat and draft sources like fireplaces, radiators and television sets. Test your light cords and connections before hanging them on the tree to make sure they're in good working order.

You don't want to use cords with cracked insulation or broken or empty sockets. Also be sure to unplug the lights before you go to bed or leave the house. Never overload electrical circuits.

So what's the best thing to add to the water in your tree stand? More water. Dr. Gary Chastagner, a researcher at Washington State University, has been working with Christmas trees, and his findings suggest that your best bet is plain old tap water. It doesn't have to be distilled water or mineral water or anything like that. So, the next time someone tells you to add ketchup or something even more bizarre to your tree stand, don't believe it.

To use a living Christmas tree successfully, please observe the following points:

• The tree should be stored in an unheated, sheltered area such as a garage or porch, out of the wind and sun. This time period allows the tree to adjust to the warmer temperatures inside your home. Store for at least a day then move indoors.
  
  
• Leave inside for no longer than 1 and 1/2 weeks - BUT shoot for one week. 
  
  
• The tree will need adequate water. The root ball or soil should be kept slightly damp but not flooded. Wrap the root ball of a balled tree in plastic or place in a tub while it is in the house.
  
  
• Do not remove the tree directly from a warm house out into freezing temperatures. Instead, move to a sheltered area first for several days.
  
  
• If the ground is unfrozen, the tree may be replanted. The spot to be dug may be mulched to prevent freezing. Plant as soon as possible.
  
  
• Do not remove the burlap and strapping. This keeps the root ball solid and secure. In the instance of a plastic cover, cut the cord and roll down the plastic at least half way prior to planting. Tap the tree container of a potted tree and remove prior to planting. Do not attempt to remove soil from the root system. Earth removed from the original hole should be backfilled around the root ball. Mulch heavily over the top of the planted root ball to prevent it from freezing. Water only as needed: a flooded tree may not survive.
  
  
• Stake the trees to prevent wind tipping or damage during the first growing season.

After the tree is planted... water once a day unless enough rain falls. Continue this trend - keeping the soil wet but not extremely wet - through the summer or warm months.