Top tips to keep your real cut Christmas tree fresh and alive!

If you are planning on buying a real tree this Christmas we’ve got some expert tips to help you keep those pine needs looking and smelling fresher for longer.

Depending on the size and variety, most Christmas trees will have been lovingly nurtured for 5-10 years before being sold, so they deserve to continue to be well looked after.

Whatever tree you choose our following 6 top tips for Christmas trees will ensure you have a happy-looking tree right through to New Year!

1. Prepare your tree

Once you get your tree home (before bringing it inside), cut 3cm off the base of the tree to open up the pores in the trunk which may have been clogged by sap. If you do not make a fresh cut the tree will not be able to drink the water it needs.
Remove the netting and give it a good shake to let the branches free and remove any loose foliage.
Put it in a bucket of water and let the tree have a good drink before setting it up in its stand. This will avoid dehydration and give it the best possible start.

2. Choose the perfect spot

There are a few things to think about when choosing where to put your tree inside. A corner is good as it keeps your tree safer from knocks and bumps.
If you’ll be using lights to decorate your tree, make sure there is a socket nearby.
Christmas trees dry out with heat; keep your tree away from heat sources like the fireplace and radiators

3. Set up your tree inside

Cover the floor where the tree will be placed to help protect it from water spillages.
Put your tree up for a couple of hours before decorating it to allow the branches to drop down or settle into their natural position. It really helps when decorating and getting a nice even look.
Ideally, use a stand that holds water. Your tree will need watering throughout its life with you.

4. Decorate

If you are covering the base of your tree with a skirt putting it on first will be much easier than when it is fully decorated.
Inspect light sets and test them prior to placing them on the tree. This saves wasted time and having to disrupt your tree too much. If your lights are worn, consider replacing them with a new set. Whenever you head to bed, turn off all of the lights. Again, bulbs can heat up over time and are likely to get pretty toasty by the end of the day. This isn’t good for the tree. Turning off the lights will give your tree a chance to cool overnight.
Go as traditional, modern or quirky as your like and enjoy the masterpiece you have created!

5. Water, water, water!

Check your tree once a day to make sure the base of the trunk is still sub-merged in water, and top up if it’s not. And yes, you really do need to check every day: you’d be amazed at how much water a thirsty tree can drink.

6. Taking your tree down

After Christmas, take down your tree and remove it from the house.
There are many environmental ways to dispose of your tree so don’t just chuck it out.
You could start a new compost pile with it, turn it into mulch or find a recycling centre with your local Council.