Evergreen Lifespan: Christmas Trees After Being Cut

A freshly cut Christmas tree will typically last between four and five weeks, but this depends on the type of tree and how well it's cared for. 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. To make your Christmas tree last longer, it's important to keep it well-watered and avoid placing it near heat sources, such as fireplaces, heaters, and direct sunlight.

A freshly cut Christmas tree will last 4-5 weeks

Once you've selected your tree, it's important to get it in the stand and give it water as soon as possible. You should also ask to have the tree baled before putting it in your car, to avoid damaging the branches and needles. When you get the tree home, trim the trunk by a few inches to help the tree absorb water and place it in a stand with a built-in water reservoir. The stand should fit the tree properly and hold at least a gallon of water.

Check the water level daily and add more water as needed. You can also add a bit of sugar and vinegar to the water to elongate its lifespan. In addition to watering, be sure to keep your tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, heaters, and direct sunlight, as these can cause the tree to dry out and drop its needles prematurely. With the proper care, your freshly cut Christmas tree will last throughout the holiday season.

Fir and cypress trees can last 4-5 weeks, pine and spruce 2-3 weeks

Fir and cypress trees can last between four and five weeks, whereas pine and spruce trees tend to last only two to three weeks. This difference in lifespan is due to the varying needle retention rates of the different tree species.

When choosing a Christmas tree, it is important to select a healthy tree with soft, pliable branches and minimal brown needles. Fir and cypress trees are known for their excellent needle retention, which is why they can last longer than pine and spruce trees.

To ensure your Christmas tree lasts as long as possible, proper care is essential. This includes watering the tree regularly, keeping it away from heat sources, and using LED lights to reduce drying and the risk of fire. With the right care, you can enjoy your Christmas tree throughout the holiday season.

Additionally, it is recommended to trim the trunk of the tree by a few inches before placing it in the stand. This helps the tree absorb water and prolongs its lifespan. By following these tips, you can maximise the lifespan of your Christmas tree, regardless of the species you choose.

Water your tree daily for the first two weeks

Watering your Christmas tree daily is crucial for its longevity. For the first two weeks after being cut, water your tree and refill the stand every day. This is when trees absorb the most water. While trees can drink up to a gallon of cool water per day, the amount of water they need depends on the diameter of the trunk. As a rule of thumb, trees will drink one quart for every inch of trunk diameter. For example, a tree with a three-inch-wide trunk would need three quarts of water per day.

Check the water level in your tree stand daily. If the water level drops below the bottom of the trunk or the bowl is nearly empty, refill it. Once the water stops decreasing rapidly, you can reduce the frequency of watering.

To keep your tree well-hydrated, consider using a tree stand with a built-in water reservoir. This will help prevent premature needle dropping and keep your tree looking fresh.

Additionally, you can use Wilt-Stop, a plant-protecting spray, to help your tree retain moisture and maintain its colour. Wilt-Stop is made from pine tree resin and is a non-toxic way to extend the lifespan of your Christmas tree.

Avoid placing the tree near heat sources

To keep a Christmas tree alive for as long as possible, it is important to avoid placing it near heat sources. This is because heat from sources such as fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, and direct sunlight can prematurely dry out and brown your tree. To preserve your tree's moisture and vivid green hue, it is best to keep it in a room that is no warmer than 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keeping the Christmas tree away from heat sources is just one aspect of proper tree care. It is also important to select a healthy tree and to ask when it was cut down. Fir and cypress species tend to keep their needles longer than spruce or pine trees. Inspecting the tree's needles before purchase is crucial—a fresh tree will have few brown needles, and its needles will be flexible and not easily breakable.

Once you've selected a healthy tree, it's important to get it in water as soon as possible. If the tree has been cut for more than 6 to 8 hours, it's a good idea to trim the trunk to allow it to absorb water better. Use a sturdy tree stand that can hold plenty of water, and check the water level daily to ensure the bottom 2 inches of the trunk remain submerged.

By following these steps and avoiding heat sources, your Christmas tree will have a better chance of lasting through the holiday season, typically about 4 weeks.

Use Wilt-Stop spray to help the tree retain moisture

Wilt-Stop spray is an anti-transpirant plant protector that can be used to help your Christmas tree retain moisture and stay fresh for longer. Here are some tips on how to use Wilt-Stop spray effectively:

• Wilt-Stop is available as a concentrate or a ready-to-use spray. The concentrate needs to be diluted with water before use, following the instructions on the label.
• When mixing the concentrate, always add the water to the sprayer first, then slowly add the Wilt-Stop concentrate. Warm water is best as it will help the product dissolve more easily.
• Use a paint stirrer attached to an electric drill to mix the solution thoroughly. This will ensure that the product is evenly distributed and reduce the risk of clogging your sprayer.
• After mixing, carefully pour the solution into your sprayer. You can use either a trigger or pressure tank sprayer for application.
• When spraying your Christmas tree, be sure to cover both the top and underside of the needles. This will ensure that the entire tree is coated and protected.
• Only one application of Wilt-Stop is needed for the entire season. However, be sure to follow the instructions on the label for the recommended amount to use.
• To avoid stickiness, be careful when opening the container and when spraying. Rinse your sprayer with warm water after use to prevent any residue from building up.
• Wilt-Stop is safe to use on a variety of plants, including evergreens, trees, and shrubs. It is also effective in reducing moisture loss in cut flowers.
• In addition to using Wilt-Stop, be sure to follow other care tips for your Christmas tree, such as keeping it away from heat sources and regularly watering it.

By using Wilt-Stop spray, you can help your Christmas tree retain moisture and keep it looking fresh and vibrant throughout the holiday season.

Frequently asked questions