How to Make Your Real Christmas Tree Last Longer

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It goes without saying that anyone who chops down a fresh fir hopes to keep it alive until at least December 25th (preferably January 1st). While that's sometimes easier said than done, here are a few simple care tips to keep your tree in the best shape possible during the holiday season:

1. Choose a tree with a straight cut across the base.

When you purchase a Christmas tree from a farm, our home care expert Heloise says to make sure the seller makes a fresh cut straight across the base of the trunk to aid water absorption. 

2. Look for a healthy green color with few brown needles. 

If you prefer to find your tree from a roadside lot, it likely came from out of state and has been exposed to dry winds in transit, according to Carolyn Forte, director of the cleaning lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. To make sure it's fresh, raise the tree a few inches off the ground and drop it onto its trunk — if only a few needles drop off, you're good to go.

3. Trim the trunk again when you get home. 

To get rid of any dried-over resin that might block the tree from absorbing water, Forte recommends making a fresh one-inch cut off the end once you get home.

4. Make sure you're giving your tree enough water. 

Heloise says you should put it in a stand or sturdy bucket (if you're storing the tree) that's large enough for the trunk and holds at least one gallon of water. 

5. Check the water level daily to make sure it's up to snuff. 

The water levels should cover the cut end of the trunk at all times to make sure your fir or pine is getting enough water to stay hydrated.

6. Keep the tree away from heat.

That means direct sunlight, fireplaces, wood stoves, and anything else that emits light or warm air. This will prevent the tree from drying out faster and Forte says if your home runs on the dry side you should try a humidifier. 

7. Don't believe everything you read. 

According to Heloise, adding sugar, Sprite, or aspirin to the water doesn't do anything to help your tree stay perky. Bummer, we know.

From: Good Housekeeping US

By Lauren Smith