Keep your real Christmas tree fresh into the New Year with simple tips like trimming the trunk, using room temperature water, and regularly checking water levels
Even though Christmas has passed, there’s no reason why your real tree can’t continue to bring festive cheer to your home well into the New Year.
According to Joes Garden Official on Instagram with just a little extra care, your tree can stay vibrant and fresh for weeks longer than you might expect. Here are some simple ways to keep your tree looking its best after the holidays.
Trim the bottom of the tree
One of the first things to do when you bring your tree home is trim the bottom of the trunk. This simple step is crucial for helping your tree absorb water more effectively. When a tree is freshly cut, sap forms over the cut end, which can block the tree’s ability to take in moisture. By trimming off an inch from the bottom, you remove this sap layer, allowing the tree to drink up and stay hydrated for longer. This is a small but essential task that can help extend your tree’s life.
Use room temperature water, not boiling water
A common misconception is that pouring boiling water into the tree’s stand will help it absorb moisture faster. In reality, hot water can shock the tree and damage the bark, leading to quicker needle drop. Stick to room temperature water for the best results. This allows the tree to gradually absorb water without any unnecessary stress. Consistently providing room temperature water will help the tree stay hydrated and looking fresh throughout the season.
Invest in a stand with a large water reservoir
Proper hydration is key to keeping your tree fresh. When choosing a tree stand, it’s important to pick one with a large water capacity. A stand with a small reservoir will require constant refilling, and you may find yourself topping it up every day. Instead, look for a stand that can hold a generous amount of water, which will help sustain the tree for longer periods between refills. Ideally, your stand should hold at least one litre of water per inch of the trunk’s diameter. This will help your tree stay hydrated without constant maintenance.
Let your tree settle before decorating
Once you’ve set up your tree, it’s tempting to dive straight into the decorations. However, it’s a good idea to let your tree settle before you start hanging lights and baubles. Many trees are netted when you buy them, which means the branches are tightly compressed. Allowing the tree to relax for an hour or so before decorating will help the branches fall into their natural shape. This gives your tree a fuller, more natural look, and prevents ornaments from falling off due to uneven or stiff branches.
Keep your tree away from heat sources
Placing your tree too close to a heat source is one of the quickest ways to dry it out. Radiators, fireplaces, and even direct heat vents can cause the tree to shed its needles much faster. To keep your tree fresh for longer, find a spot away from any direct heat sources. A cool, dry location is ideal for preserving the tree’s vitality. The farther away from heat, the better your tree will fare in the long run.
Check water levels regularly
Finally, don’t forget to check the water level in the stand daily. Real Christmas trees can drink a surprising amount of water, especially in the first few days after being brought indoors. If the water level drops below the base of the trunk, the tree will stop absorbing it and begin to dry out quickly. Make it a habit to top up the water every day, ensuring that your tree remains well-hydrated and stays fresh for as long as possible.
