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How to keep your Christmas tree fresh for longer

Their step-by-step instructions will ensure that your Christmas tree will hold onto its needles for a long time.

Text: Lisa Stutz
Image: Getty Images
Date: 16.12.2022
Format: Tip

1. When purchasing, check the cutting edge

Aim to buy a tree that was felled as recently as possible. That's logical, because the "newer" the tree, the longer it will keep in your home. So when buying a Christmas tree, check the cutting edge. Is it light? That means the tree was felled recently. Is it dark? The tree was cut down a while ago. You can also do the needle test: if needles come off in your hand when you stroke them in the direction in which they are growing, stay away from that tree.

2. Don't transport it on your car roof without protection

Having a swaying tree on your car roof may make you feel like you're in a romantic film, but it's a no-no: the cold wind will dry the tree out. If you have no other alternative for transportation, you should pack your tree in tin foil - starting at the cutting edge.

3. Don't put it in your warm lounge immediately

The important thing here is "acclimatisation". First, stand your newly purchased tree in your cellar, garage or conservatory. Leave it there for one or two days. Here, it will thaw and get used to the warmer temperatures.

4. Saw it and stand it in water

Even in its "temporary home", your Christmas tree should be stood in a bucket of water. So that it can absorb the water optimally, cut into the stem like you would tulips in the spring.

5. Place it correctly

Once your tree has got used to the warmth, you can put it into your flat. But watch out that it's not in front of a radiator, where it would quickly get too hot. If you have underfloor heating, it's best to put the tree and the stand on a small platform. Also make sure that it's not standing directly in a draught. The perfect place is by a window.

6. Remove the net

You should leave the net around the tree until it is at its final position. Then cut the net from the bottom. This avoids damaging the tree. But don't then decorate the tree immediately. The branches take a day to get back into their original shape.

7. Air, water and spray

Regularly air the room in which your Christmas tree is standing. This increases the humidity and extends the tree's durability. In addition, you must add water to the Christmas tree stand regularly - about every two days - to prevent the tree drying out. The rule of thumb is that a two metre high tree absorbs about two litres of water a day. We recommend spraying the needles regularly with water that is low in calcium. If possible, avoid using spray-on decorations like artificial snow or glitter because this blocks the tree's pores.