Christmas is a particular time when family and friends come together to celebrate. One of the most important traditions of Christmas is putting up a fresh Christmas tree. Having a fresh Christmas tree is essential because it symbolizes hope, new beginnings, and life. It also brings the outdoors inside and fills your home with the fresh smell of evergreens. Plus, fresh Christmas trees are environmentally friendly and support local farmers.
1. Get a fresh cut
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who get a real Christmas tree each year, you want it to last through the holidays. Here are some tips on how to pick a fresh-cut tree and care for it so it stays.
When picking out your Christmas tree, look for one that is fresh and green. Avoid trees with brown needles or that are shedding needles. It would be best if you also gave the tree a shake before buying it to ensure there aren’t too many loose needles.
Once you have your tree home, please put it in the water as soon as possible. You can use a stand with a water reservoir or just put the tree’s base in a bucket of water. Check the water level daily and keep the tree away from heat sources like fireplaces or vents.
2. Keep it hydrated
It’s essential to keep your Christmas tree hydrated, so it lasts longer. Here are a few tips to help you keep your tree healthy and hydrated:
- Check the water level daily – ensure the tree always stands in at least 2 inches of water.
- Use a clean tree stand – don’t let the water become stagnant, leading to bacteria growth.
- Add fresh water as needed – if you notice the water level getting low, add more fresh water to the stand.
- Keep the tree away from heat sources – this will help prevent the tree from drying out too quickly.
- Cut 1-2 inches off the base of the trunk before putting it in the stand – this will help the tree absorb water more efficiently.
3. Don’t overdecorate
As Christmas approaches, many people begin to decorate their homes with holiday cheer. One of the most popular decorations is the Christmas tree. While it is tempting to go all out with garland, lights, and ornaments, it is essential to remember that less is more.
Too much decoration on a Christmas tree can shorten its lifespan. The weight of the ornaments can cause branches to break, and if the tree is not watered correctly, it will dry out quickly. A dried-out tree is a fire hazard, so it is vital to care when decorating. If you don’t have time to decorate your own tree, you can call The Light Pros.
To make your Christmas tree last longer, stick to a few essential decorations. Choose energy-efficient lights, and limit the number of ornaments you use. Garland can be used sparingly, and avoid using anything that is too heavy or could potentially fall off the tree and break.
4. Keep it away from heat sources
When it comes to Christmas trees, it’s essential to ensure they are kept away from heat sources. This will help them last longer. Heat sources can cause the tree to dry out, making it more susceptible to fire. Heat sources can also cause the needles to fall off the tree.
To keep your Christmas tree lasting longer, keep it away from any heat sources in your home. This includes fireplaces, radiators, and even candles. Doing so will help keep your tree looking fresh and festive all season long!
5. Take it down before it dries out
As Christmas comes to a close, many people are left wondering when the appropriate time is to take down their tree. While some opt to keep their tree up until New Year’s Day, others believe that taking it down early will prevent it from drying out.
If you’re one of those people who like to take their tree down early, here are a few tips to help you do so without damaging your tree:
- Start by removing all of the decorations from your tree. This includes lights, garland, and other trimmings you may have added.
- Next, carefully remove the tree stand from your tree. Be careful not to damage the trunk as you do so.
- Once the stand is removed, gently lower your tree to the ground.
In conclusion, if you want to extend the life of your Christmas tree, follow these tips: water it regularly, keep it away from heat sources and cut an inch off the bottom of the trunk every week. You can enjoy your tree for weeks or even months with a bit of care.
