Maximize the Life of Your Christmas Tree

With a little care and attention, you can keep your real Christmas tree looking fresh and smelling wonderful throughout the festive season.

Follow these six simple steps to help your tree remain healthy, hydrated and ready for decorating.

1. Choose a fresh tree

Look for a tree with bright, glossy needles and a full, healthy shape.

Gently run your hand along a branch to check that the needles feel flexible and remain firmly attached. A freshly cut tree should also feel heavy for its size because it will still contain plenty of moisture.

Real Christmas trees are available exclusively in store at Coletta & Tyson Garden Centre.

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2. Transport it carefully

Your tree will usually be wrapped in protective netting to make it easier to transport and prevent damage to the branches.

Keep the netting in place while travelling and secure the tree carefully to prevent it from moving. Leave it wrapped while preparing the trunk and placing it into its stand.

3. Give it a fresh cut

Before placing the tree in water, remove a small section from the bottom of the trunk with a straight cut.

This fresh cut helps the tree absorb water more effectively. Place the tree into water as soon as possible afterwards to prevent the exposed base from drying out.

4. Let the tree drink

If possible, stand the tree outside in a sheltered position with its trunk in a bucket of water for a day or two before bringing it indoors.

This gives it an opportunity to absorb plenty of water. Check the bucket regularly and keep the bottom of the trunk submerged.

5. Keep it watered and cool

Place the tree in a sturdy stand with a built-in water reservoir. Remove the netting, allow the branches to settle and fill the stand with fresh water.

Check the water level every day, particularly during the first few days, and never allow the base of the trunk to become exposed.

Position the tree away from radiators, fireplaces, direct sunlight and other sources of heat. A cooler position will help reduce moisture loss and keep the needles fresh for longer.

6. Recycle or repurpose it

When Christmas is over, check whether your local council offers a Christmas tree recycling service.

You may also be able to shred the branches and use them as garden mulch. This can help suppress weeds, protect the soil and give your tree a useful purpose after Christmas.

Enjoy your real Christmas tree

Choose a healthy tree, keep it well watered and protect it from direct heat to help it remain fresh, fragrant and beautiful throughout Christmas.