Q: What should I look for when buying a Christmas tree for the holidays?  Andrew Wilson, Memphis A: Keep these points in mind when buying your tree:Start with a fresh tree. If the needles snap, they are too dry. Fresh needles should bend, not break. Some loss of needles inside the tree is common.

Check the height of the ceiling in the room where you will display your tree. Select a tree that is at least 1foot shorter than the ceiling height. Avoid a tree that has a wilted look. Make sure the trunk of the tree is straight. The trunk should be 6 to 8 inches long to allow placement in the tree stand. Check the tree for insects.

When you get your tree home, make a fresh cut, take off 1 inch from the trunk and place the tree in fresh water immediately. Your stand should always contain plenty of water. This will reduce loss of needles. Q: When is the best time to plant perennials, and how far apart should I plant them? Cyndy Grvich Tucker, Memphis A: Fall is the best time to plant perennials, as long as the soil is not frozen.

Make sure you space them correctly. Plants spaced too far apart look sparse and weeds can invade. If planted too closely together, plants are more likely to develop diseases. The general rule of thumb is to space them equal to the height they will achieve at maturity. Proper spacing helps air circulation around the plants and lets them get the most sunlight.

The root ball should be broken before planting to encourage the roots to grow into the soil. If you plant perennials in the spring, pinch off blooms. This will decrease transplanting stress and encourage plants to branch out and produce more flowers as they mature.