A real Christmas tree brings colour and a festive feel to your home. A little care from the day you buy it can help it stay fresh through December. Start with a fresh tree, give it water and choose its spot carefully.
Choose a fresh, healthy tree
Look for flexible needles and a healthy colour. Ask when the tree was cut, and check for widespread browning or brittle branches. A few loose needles are normal; heavy shedding when the tree is gently moved is a reason to choose another.
Make a fresh cut before standing it in water
Saw about 2.5cm off the base of the trunk before placing it in water. Ask your supplier to help if you do not have suitable tools. Put the freshly cut base into water promptly.
Choose a stand with a water reservoir
Use a sturdy stand sized for your tree, with an accessible reservoir. Check the manufacturer’s size limits and secure the trunk before decorating. Keep the cut base submerged.
Check the water every day
Make topping up part of your daily routine. Check more frequently at first, when the tree may take up water quickly. Plain fresh water is enough: sugary drinks and special mixtures are unnecessary.
Keep the room comfortably cool
Avoid radiators, fireplaces and direct heat. Warm rooms increase moisture loss, so a cooler position helps needles stay on longer. Keep the tree away from open flames and use lights according to their instructions.
Avoid the mistakes that dry trees out
A dry stand, a spot beside a radiator and choosing a tree that was already brittle can shorten its display life. Do not assume the reservoir is full because it was topped up yesterday. Check beneath decorations so they do not hide the water level.
Plan for December
Buy with your decorating date in mind and keep up the daily water checks throughout the festive period. Freshness, species and room conditions all affect how long a tree looks its best; no cut tree lasts indefinitely. Remove it when it becomes dry or brittle.
Let us help with your Christmas tree
Visit our Christmas Tree Pre-Orders page to enquire about tree sizes, local delivery and optional collection after Christmas. Prices and arrangements are subject to confirmation.
Further reading: RHS Christmas tree care and Forestry England’s Christmas tree tips.