Evergreen Cheer: How Long Will Your Christmas Tree Last?

A freshly cut Christmas tree can last the entire month of December and even into the new year if you care for it properly. A well-watered Christmas tree can last around four to five weeks before drying out. However, the specific species of tree also contributes to its lifespan. For example, fir and cypress trees can last up to five weeks, while pine and spruce trees tend to make it only about two to three weeks.

Choosing a healthy tree

The key to getting your Christmas tree to last through the holiday season is to select a healthy tree. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Ask when the tree was cut down

Christmas trees are typically cut from mid-November to mid-December, so don't assume that all the trees you find at a lot are freshly cut. If you're buying a pre-cut tree, choose one that was cut down recently (within the week, if possible) so that it will stay fresh throughout the season.

Opt for fir or cypress species over spruce or pine

The longevity of a Christmas tree depends on its species. Fir and cypress trees tend to keep most of their needles for 4 to 5 weeks, while pine and spruce trees are more likely to lose a high volume of needles within 2 to 3 weeks.

Inspect the tree's needles before taking it home

Give each prospective tree a good shake and observe the volume and colour of the needles that fall off. A fresh tree will only lose a few brown needles when shaken, while numerous fallen green needles indicate that the tree has already started to dry out. You can also test the pliability of the needles by bending them – if they flex easily, that's a good sign. If they break or aren't flexible, it means the tree is dehydrated.

Ask the seller to make a fresh cut

When you purchase the tree, ask the seller to make a fresh cut straight across the base of the trunk. This will aid water absorption by removing any dried-over resin that has built up. When you get the tree home, if you're not putting it up right away, place it in a bucket of water and store it in an unheated garage or area protected from wind and freezing temperatures.

Watering your tree

Watering your Christmas tree is essential to keeping it healthy and thriving throughout the holiday season. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your tree gets the hydration it needs:

Choosing the Right Tree Stand

Select a sturdy tree stand with a water reservoir that is adequate for the size of your tree. The general rule is that the stand should hold at least one quart of water per inch of trunk diameter. For a 6-foot tree, aim for a stand that can hold at least one gallon of water. The stand should also be proportionate in size to your tree—don't try to fit a large tree into a small stand.

Trimming the Tree Trunk

Before placing your tree in the stand, trim the base of the tree trunk. This step is crucial as it helps the tree absorb water. Using a saw, cut off about 1/4 to 1/2 inch from the bottom of the trunk, making sure to cut straight across and not at an angle or in a V-shape. This cut removes dried resin that may have formed and clogged the water-conducting tissues. If you're buying a pre-cut tree, ask the seller to make a fresh cut.

Watering Frequency and Amount

Water your Christmas tree daily, especially during the first few days after bringing it home. A 6-foot tree typically needs about a gallon of water per day, so adjust the amount according to the size of your tree. Monitor the water level in the stand daily and ensure that the trunk remains fully submerged. Add water as needed to keep the reservoir filled.

Avoid Adding Substances to the Water

Plain tap water is the best option for your tree. Avoid adding sugar, aspirin, bleach, floral preservatives, or any other substances to the water. Research by Christmas tree specialists has shown that plain water is all that's needed to keep your tree hydrated and healthy.

Spraying the Branches and Needles

In addition to watering the trunk, use a spray bottle to mist the branches and needles once a day. This helps prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle, especially in dry, heated indoor environments.

Other Care Tips

Keep your tree away from direct heat sources, such as fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, and direct sunlight. Heat can cause the tree to dry out prematurely. Lowering the room temperature can slow down the drying process and reduce water consumption. Additionally, if you're not ready to put up your tree right away, store it in a cool, shady place for no more than two days.

Using a fitting stand

• Choose a sturdy stand that fits your tree properly. The stand should be the right size for your tree, ensuring stability and preventing accidental toppling.
• Opt for a stand with a water reservoir. A stand that can hold at least a gallon of water is ideal. This will help keep your tree hydrated, preventing needle loss and maintaining its freshness.
• Check the water level daily. It is essential to monitor the water level in the reservoir regularly. Refill it as needed to ensure the bottom two inches of the tree trunk remain submerged.
• Avoid adding anything to the water. While you may be tempted to add preservatives or homemade concoctions, experts advise against it. Plain water is all your tree needs to stay hydrated and fresh.
• Use a moisture level monitor. Consider investing in a device like the Evergreen Elf, which can be mounted on the tree stand. It will notify you when the water level is low, helping you maintain optimal hydration for your tree.
• Place the stand away from heat sources. Heat from sources like fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, or direct sunlight can accelerate the drying process, leading to premature needle loss and browning of your tree.

Avoiding heat sources

A Christmas tree can last the entire festive period if you care for it properly. One of the most important things to do is to keep it away from heat sources, as these can cause it to dry out and brown prematurely.

• Keep your Christmas tree away from direct sunlight. Sunlight streaming through a window can heat up a room and cause the tree to dry out. It's best to place your tree in a shady, cool spot, preferably away from windows.
• Maintain a cool room temperature. Keeping your home cooler will slow down the drying process of the tree. Aim to keep the room your tree is in at a temperature no warmer than 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Avoid placing the tree near heat sources. Don't place your Christmas tree near fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, radiators, or any other sources of heat. These can accelerate the drying process and cause needle drop.
• Use LED lights instead of incandescent bulbs. LED lights generate less heat, reducing the drying effect on the tree. They also use less energy, so they're a more energy-efficient option.
• Use a humidifier. If your home is prone to dryness, consider using a humidifier in the room with the Christmas tree. This will add moisture to the air and help keep the tree fresh for a longer period.

By following these tips, you can help your Christmas tree last longer and avoid the early browning and needle drop associated with heat exposure.

Trimming the trunk

First, check if the seller has made a fresh cut straight across the base of the trunk. This initial cut aids water absorption by removing any dried-over resin that might block the tree from absorbing water. If they haven't, you can request that they do so, or you can do it yourself when you get home. This step is crucial, as it helps your tree stay hydrated and prevents needle loss.

When you get home, if you're not putting up your tree right away, place the tree in a bucket of water and store it in an unheated garage or area protected from wind and freezing temperatures. Keeping the tree hydrated will help maintain its freshness.

Before bringing the tree inside, make another fresh cut, about one inch from the bottom of the trunk, to further enhance water absorption. This step is especially important if it's been more than 6-8 hours since the initial cut, as a layer of resin can form over the cells of the wood, impeding water uptake.

When making these cuts, it's important to cut straight across the base of the trunk. Avoid cutting at an angle or into a V shape, as this will require more water depth to cover the cut surface. Additionally, use sharp tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the bark.

By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively trim the trunk of your Christmas tree, ensuring it stays hydrated, maintains its needle retention, and remains fresh throughout the holiday season.

Frequently asked questions