Home > Lawn & Garden > Home Gardening > Indoor Plants > Expert Offers Tips On Choosing, Caring For Holiday Tree [Image: Christmas Tree] It’s the time of year when many people go shopping for trees to decorate their homes during the holiday season. LSU AgCenter expert Dr. Don Reed offers a few tips on selecting and caring for a tree that may help you get the most enjoyment from it. Poinsettias Popular At Holidays But Difficult To Save For Next Year [Image: Various colors of poinsettias] Many people use poinsettias to decorate their homes during the holiday season. The plants you purchase now can be a beautiful part of your decorations, but they’re probably only good for this season, the experts say. Tips On Choosing The Best Christmas Tree Christmas trees are showing up at retail locations throughout the area. The appropriate steps in selecting a fresh tree are important in its longevity in your home. In addition, by selecting a tree that is fresh, you can avoid some potential hazards. Christmas Tree Selection and Care Satisfaction with a "real" Christmas tree starts with the right selection and continues with proper care throughout the holiday season, according to LSU AgCenter forestry expert Dr. Hallie Dozier. By following certain steps, the forester says you can keep the tree fresh and safe for enjoyment throughout the holidays.  more articles... Poinsettia Care and Selection [Image: Poinsettia Care and Selection] Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima), the leading floricultural crop in the United States since the mid 1980s, are one of the primary trademarks of the Christmas season. This publication includes information on plant selection, varieties, placement and care in the home, and care after Christmas for poinsettias. Hanging Baskets [Image: hanging baskets] This publication includes information on growing plants in hanging baskets and caring for them. It includes the best time to plant hanging baskets, types of linings for them, details on watering and care, as well as information on winter protection and insect and disease control. Adequate Balance Essential for Plant Nutrition Plants need 16 elements for normal growth.