How to Care for a Real Christmas Tree

A properly cared-for real Christmas tree can remain fresh and beautiful throughout the holiday season. Follow these simple steps to help your tree retain moisture, reduce needle drop, and stay safer indoors.

• Start With a Fresh Cut

  • Before placing your tree in water, make a fresh cut at the base of the trunk by removing at least one-half inch from the bottom. A freshly cut surface should appear light and creamy in color, not yellowed or brown.

  • This fresh cut helps reopen the tree's ability to absorb water. Once the cut is made, place the tree in water as soon as possible. The longer the tree sits without water, the more difficult it becomes for the trunk to properly absorb moisture again.

  • Even if your tree has a drilled hole for a pin-style stand, a fresh cut should still be made.

    
    

• Use a Sturdy Tree Stand

  • Choose a stand that holds at least one gallon of water and is appropriately sized for your tree.

  • Fill the stand with plain water.

  • Place the tree and check the stand carefully for leaks.

  • If your tree will not be brought indoors immediately, store it outdoors in a bucket of water:

    • In warm climates, keep it in a cool shaded area protected from sun and wind.

    • In colder climates, protect it from drying winds and freezing conditions.

      
      

• Water Daily

  • Real Christmas trees can consume a surprising amount of water, often between one quart and one gallon per day.

  • Check the water level daily and keep the base of the trunk submerged at all times. If the water level falls below the cut end of the trunk, the tree can seal itself off and stop absorbing water. If this happens, another fresh cut may be necessary.

  • Consistent watering is one of the most important steps on maintaining a fresh tree.

    

• Choose Safer Lighting

  • Miniature LED or mini-light sets product less heat and help reduce drying.

  • Before decorating:

    • Inspect all light strands for damaged wires, cracked insulation, or broken sockets.

    • Replace worn or damaged light sets rather than attempting repairs.

    • Avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords.

  • Always turn tree lights off before leaving home or going to bed.

  • Never use lighted candles on or near a Christmas tree.

    
    

• Keep the Tree Away From Heat Sources

  • Heat accelerates drying. Place your tree away from:

    • fireplaces

    • wood stoves

    • heating vents

    • radiators

    • televisions

    • and direct sunny windows

  • Be mindful not to block doorways or emergency exits with the tree or surrounding furniture.

    
    

• Remove the Tree Promptly After the Holidays

  • After the holiday season, remove the tree before it becomes excessively dry.

  • Many communities offer Christmas Tree Recycling, chipping, or composting programs through parks departments, waste services, nurseries, or local organizations.

  • Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove.