How to Keep your Real Christmas Tree Fresh for Longer: Your Complete Care Guide

As November arrives, thoughts begin to turn towards Christmas preparations. This includes selecting the perfect tree that will fill your home with that festive feeling.

A healthy tree will retain its needles better, keeping that full look. It will also make your home feel festive, giving it that beautiful pine scent. So if you want to know how to keep a real Christmas tree fresh, follow this guide. 

How to choose a healthy Christmas tree

It is important to start strong and that means purchasing a quality, healthy tree. When you make your choice, gently pull on the branch. A few needles falling is normal but if a substantial amount drops to the ground, it may be best to reconsider. This is a sign that the tree has dried out and might not last through the Christmas period.

Trim the Trunk Before Putting Up Your Tree 

Cut trees have a layer of hardened sap on the base of the trunk which reduces the amount of water they are able to absorb. To ensure your tree gets plenty to drink, trim about half an inch off the bottom of the trunk when you first get it home. 

Keep Your Christmas Tree Well Watered

Christmas trees get through a lot of water, so it is important to monitor them closely and ensure that they always have plenty to drink. To make sure your tree stays hydrated, follow these Christmas tree watering tips!

Start by selecting the right base. It should be sturdy and able to hold at least a gallon of water, with easy access so you can add more regularly. Christmas trees go through around 1-2 litres of water daily, varying due to factors like size and temperature. This means that water levels should be checked frequently. We would recommend twice a day as a minimum, first thing in the morning and before you go to bed at night. Make sure you refill the base as needed, keeping the bottom of the trunk submerged. If your tree does not get enough water, you risk the sap hardening, resealing the trunk and preventing absorption. 

Trees love fresh water and suggestions to add anything else will likely cause harm rather than offer any benefit. This includes gimmicks like Coca-Cola and lemon juice, or products that may be sold to you like tree food. When caring for your tree, keep it simple and stick with fresh water. 

Keep Your Christmas Tree Cool

As the season suggests, Christmas trees like to stay nice and cool. If it gets too hot, you risk the needles drying out and dropping prematurely. To maintain freshness, keep your tree at a stable temperature and avoid shock changes. When choosing its location, avoid putting it next to a heat source, such as radiators and fireplaces, or in a location that gets a lot of direct sunlight. 

How Long Does a Real Christmas Tree Last?

With proper attention and care, your tree should last for around four weeks. A healthy tree retains its needles for longer, keeping it looking full. It will also release that beautiful pine scent into your home. 

Christmas Tree Recycling in North Somerset

When the Christmas period comes to an end, and you are looking to get rid of your tree, think of us here At Noah's Ark Farm Shop!

If you are looking for Christmas Tree recycling in Bristol or North Somerset, then head to Noah's Ark Farm Shop in January. For the 6th year running we are partnering with St. Peters Hospice and North Somerset Council to help you recycle your trees. Just remove the decorations and lights, drop off your tree at our car park and we will take care of the rest. 

Recycle your Tree!