Keep Your Real Christmas Tree Fresh This Festive Season

Christmas trees are much like cut flowers, with an impressive ability to draw water through their bark by capillary action - just as flowers pull water up through their stems. It’s important to remember that real Christmas trees are living organisms. Once cut, they begin to deteriorate, so proper care and attention are essential to keep them fresh and beautiful throughout the festive season.          

Real Christmas Trees Need Care Too.                    

Veronika Kusak, E-commerce Director explains, "We want our customers to remember that a little care, such as watering and keeping the tree away from heat, goes a long way in keeping their Christmas tree fresh and beautiful.” Veronika adds “If you follow our tips, there’s no doubt your tree could last the duration of the festive season, and bring that joy and festive cheer to your home!”

To help households get the very best from their real Christmas tree, Pines and Needles highlight their top care tips for this festive season. 

 

1. Prepare the trunk
 Before setting up your tree, saw off the bottom 1 to 3 cm of the trunk. This fresh cut opens the pores in the bark, allowing the tree to absorb water through capillary action. Without this step, sap can block the pores within a few hours, preventing hydration.

 

2. Choose the right location
 Place your tree in a stable environment. Avoid radiators, fireplaces, heaters, or direct sunlight - excess heat will dry out the tree more quickly. Likewise, try to avoid placing it near dehumidifiers or air conditioners, as these can also draw moisture from the tree, even if the room remains cool. Christmas trees thrive in consistent, moderate temperatures, which helps them stay fresh throughout the festive season. 

 

3. Use a proper stand
 Always use a purpose-built, water holding Christmas tree stand. This ensures both stability and proper water access. Avoid makeshift solutions like buckets with bricks or stones, which can be unstable and restrict water uptake. 

 

4. Water regularly
  Keep the stand topped up with plain water - never soil or sand, which can block the trunk’s pores. Depending on your tree’s size and home heating, it may drink 1 to 2 litres per day. Always ensure the water level never drops below the base of the trunk. Once the bark dries out, sap will reseal the pores, and the tree can no longer absorb water effectively.

 

5. Watch for pets
  If you have pets, particularly dogs, be aware that they may use the tree stand as a convenient water source. This can reduce the tree’s water intake, so check the level frequently.

 

By following these simple care tips, households can ensure their real Christmas tree remains fresh, vibrant, and full of festive charm throughout the Christmas season.