For any species, if the tree is fresh, the needles will stay on the branch and not fall off if you touch them. If you’re buying a balsam fir, gently bend a needle between your thumb and forefinger. If the tree is fresh, the needle will break. If you’re buying a pine tree, the needle should not break if the tree is fresh.
The first time you water your tree, use hot water—about 80°F. Add 2 ounces of antibacterial mouthwash to the residual water in the base stand to prevent the growth of any unwanted bacteria, which can block the tree’s ability to drink.