a first instruction is provided to add the contents of a container to the reservoir bowl portion of a tree stand , where the material includes an amount of a superabsorbent polymer . a second instruction is provided to add ice . in one example , an assembly includes a container , where the sap is in the container , and where the container bears the instructions . this assembly is provided to the user . the user follows the instructions , and pours the contents into the reservoir bowl , and then adds ice to the reservoir bowl . the melting ice hydrates the sap . the hydrated sap then transfers moisture to a cut tree held by the stand . water is replenished by adding more ice . no water must be poured or handled to hydrate the tree , so spilling and difficulties associated with pouring volumes of water into the bowl portion are avoided . the sap is reusable and biodegradable .