Maintaining a fresh Christmas tree with proper care is the best fire prevention. Following these tips will help ensure your tree will stays fresh for at least three to four weeks.
- Store your tree in a bucket of warm water but in a cool, wind free area, such as an unheated garage, until tree is ready to be brought indoors
- Prior to placing your tree in an indoor water-holding tree stand make a fresh, level cut approximately ½” – 1” from the bottom of the trunk to aid in water uptake. If the tree has been cut within 12 hours it is not necessary to recut before placing it in the stand.
Lurvey Pro Tip: The use of a tree bag can be helpful come clean up time. The bag should be in place under stand to help catch fallen needles. This can be hidden with a decorative tree skirt.
- Keep a minimum of approximately 2” of the cut end in water at all times. Check the water level 2-3 times/day the first few days and daily thereafter. A tree in a warm dry room will go through water rapidly and may need to be checked more often.
Lurvey Pro Tip: The use of a Christmas tree preservative, such as Prolong, may help extend the life of your tree. Use of clean water goes a long way.
- Avoid placing a tree near hot or cold drafts and heat sources, such as vents and fireplaces. These drafts dry out the branches which promotes needle drop.
- For disposal: Cut up into evergreen boughs and place on top of perennials or low growing plants. This provides protection, especially in late winter.
Keep these tips in mind to enjoy your fresh cut Christmas tree throughout the holiday season!
