Real trees require care to ensure the freshest, most fragrant tree for your home or business. To keep your real Christmas tree fresh, follow the following steps:
1. Make sure there has been a “fresh cut” (1/4”–1/2” disk of wood) on the base of the trunk before bringing the tree into your home. This “fresh cut” will allow the tree to draw water from the tree stand and keep the needles fresh.
2. Place the tree in water as soon as possible after the tree has a fresh cut on the base; the temperature of the water does not matter.
3. Place the tree in a stand that fits the tree. Don’t take the bark off the tree as this will hinder the tree’s ability to absorb water. The stand should provide one quart of water for each inch of the stem’s diameter.
4. Keep the tree away from heat sources to slow the drying process, such as heaters, fireplaces, heat vents and direct sunlight.
5. Check the level of water in the stand every few days since the tree may not be submerged in the water if the level gets too low. The tree may consume two pans of water within the first 24 hours.
6. Properly dispose of the tree after it is dried out. Your city may offer a tree disposal service or you can recycle your tree.
Tips
- Try not to bruise the fresh cut or get it dirty.
- You can store your tree in a cool area in a bucket of water for a few days if needed.
- Do not push the branches on the tree down since this can weaken or break them. Allow your tree to fully “open up”.
- Drilling a hole in the tree does not increase its water intake.
- Most retailers sell quality stands that last for decades.
- You can purchase devices to maintain water levels in a stand.
- Inspect lights before placing them on your tree.
- Do not overload electrical outlets.
- Many retailers sell tree bags to assist in clean up.
- Do not burn your tree in a wood stove or fireplace.
