Live Christmas Tree Care

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where I live people buy live cut christmas tree from our local optimist club. (charlotte ekker wiggins photo)

Live Christmas Tree Care

I think whether you use a live Christmas tree or an artificial one tends to depend on what you did as a child. We grew up with artificial trees but the sale of live trees where I live is a popular Optimist Club yearly fundraiser.

Here are ten tips to help keep live cut Christmas trees fresh for a longer duration:

  1. Choose a Fresh Tree: Select a tree with vibrant, green needles that don't fall off easily when touched. Check the trunk's stickiness; a freshly cut tree will have a sticky resin base.

  2. Make a Fresh Cut: Upon bringing the tree home, make a straight cut across the base (about 1-2 inches up) to open up the tree's pores, enabling it to absorb water more effectively.

  3. Water Regularly: Place the tree in a stand with a water reservoir and ensure it's always submerged in water. Trees can drink a surprising amount of water, so check and refill the stand daily.

  4. Location Matters: Keep the tree away from direct heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents. Heat can accelerate the drying process, causing the tree to lose needles faster.

  5. Use a Tree Preservative: Consider using a commercial tree preservative or make your own by mixing water with sugar, corn syrup, or aspirin. This can help keep the tree hydrated and healthy.

  6. Mist the Tree: Spritzing the tree with water using a spray bottle can help maintain humidity levels around the needles and prevent them from drying out too quickly.

  7. Cover the Base: Consider covering the base of the tree stand with a decorative tree skirt to help retain moisture by preventing rapid evaporation.

  8. Prune Regularly: Remove any dead or dry branches promptly to reduce stress on the tree and maintain its appearance throughout the holiday season.

  9. Monitor for Pests: Inspect the tree regularly for pests like aphids, spiders, or mites. If found, gently vacuum or shake the tree outdoors to remove them.

  10. Dispose Properly: Once the holiday season is over, promptly dispose of the tree. Recycle it by mulching or turning it into wood chips to prevent it from becoming a fire hazard.

Adhering to these tips can significantly prolong the freshness and appearance of your live cut Christmas tree throughout the holiday season.

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Charlotte