Some needles will naturally fall out, at the first real good shake. After
it is shaken real heavily to clear out the needles, it should not shed a lot
a day later.

Bend a small branch or stem, out near the end of the branch. It should snap
back pretty quickly instead of staying "with the bend."

Cut about an inch off the bottom of the stump (for a fresh cut) , and place
the tree in water. It is amazing how much water they will suck up. Some
folks put sugar in the water, but I never have felt the need for that. Watch
the water level daily.

Hope this helps !!


--James--