6 Tips to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh

Reader's Digest CanadaUpdated: Mar. 20, 2019

Keep your tree healthy through the holidays, and follow these easy Christmas tree maintenance tips.

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1. Make the Cut

When you buy your tree, have an inch cut off the base to make it easier for the tree to take in water. (Be sure the cut is straight so the tree will stand up properly.)

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2. Store it Properly

If you don’t plan to put the tree up right away, place the tree in a bucket of warm water and stand it in an unheated garage or porch away from the wind and cold.

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3. Pick the Right Stand

When you bring your tree inside, use a stand that holds at least three to four litres of water.

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4. Water Regularly

Keep your tree well-watered. Water prevents the needles from drying and dropping off and maintains the fragrance. Trees may use several quarts a day, so check the water level in the stand every few hours.

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5. Watch the Water Levels

Never let the water level fall below the base of the tree or the cut end may seal over, preventing further water intake. If this happens, take the tree down and make a fresh cut.

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6. Keep it Simple

Don’t add anything to the water. Though some people swear that throwing in such extras as aspirin, soda water, bleach, salt, sugar, or Karo syrup keeps trees fresher longer, the experts say plain water, and plenty of it, is best.

Originally Published: December 02, 2012