Planning on buying a real tree this Christmas? We've got some expert tips to help you keep those pine needles looking and smelling fresher for longer, ensuring you get the most out of your spruce, especially if you're putting up decorations early this year.
Whether you chose a Nordmann fir or a lodgepole pine from our home-grown selection, following our five top tips for Christmas tree care will ensure you have a happy looking tree right through to the new year.
1. Buy a top quality, fresh tree
If you want a Christmas centrepiece that can withstand more than a few weeks in your home, shopping with quality in mind is a priority.
See if there's a Forestry England seller near you for a quality home-grown tree, but if you have to go elsewhere - be sure to check the needles are flexible and green. Tough needles which snap when bent are a sign of a half-dead tree which won’t stand the test of time.
When checking the health of a tree you can also try tapping the cut end to the ground, a few falling needles is expected, but if lots fall off without much movement - it's time to find another!
2. Give your trunk a trim
Once you get your tree home, saw half an inch off the trunk. This will rid your tree of any hardened sap and make sure it can absorb lots of water to stay fresh and green throughout your festivities.
If you don't have the tools available to do it yourself, ask your friendly Christmas tree seller!
3. Keep your tree watered
Water is key to keeping your tree alive throughout the festive season. Make sure you choose a sturdy stand that can hold a good amount of liquid. Your Christmas tree needs to be kept in water at all times, so finding a base with a good well that you can access is important.
Check your tree’s water source every day, you'll be surprised just how thirsty they can be, drinking upwards of two to three pints a day! Make sure the trunk is nicely submerged for happy and healthy needles.
Give the gift of adventure this Christmas!
4. Leave out the gimmicks
You might have been told that Coca-Cola or corn syrup in the base helps to keep your tree alive, or maybe the garden centre tried to send you home with special tree food?
Don’t fall for it! Your beautiful tree just wants a constant supply of fresh water, it's that simple.
5. Not too hot, not too cold
Your tree’s natural habitat at this time of year is out in the cold air, minimize the shock of the relocation and keep your tree happy by giving your tree some good distance from the radiator.
Constant heat or fluctuating temperatures can dry your tree out very quickly and if you're planning to put your tree up very early this year, it's vital you keep it away from direct heat.
