How to Extend the Life of Your Christmas Tree
- Start With a Fresh Tree
- Choose a tree with flexible, green needles that don’t snap when you bend them.
- Give the branches a shake—only a few needles should fall. Excessive shedding means it’s already drying out.
- Make a Fresh Cut at the Base
- Once home, cut ½ inch to 1 inch off the bottom of the trunk.
- This opens up the vessels so the tree can actually take up water again.
- Place it in water within 15–20 minutes of making the cut if possible.
- Water Immediately—And Generously
- A freshly cut tree can drink a lot of water the first couple of days (up to a gallon).
- Use a stand that holds at least 1 gallon.
- Keep the water level above the base of the trunk at all times.
If the cut end dries out even once, it will seal over and stop absorbing water.
- Keep It Away From Heat Sources
Heat dries trees out quickly. Avoid:
- Direct sunlight
- Fireplaces
- Vents
- Space heaters
- Wood stoves
If you can’t avoid a warm room, at least close heat vents nearby.
- Use Cooler, Energy-Efficient Lights
- LED lights produce very little heat and won’t dry the needles like old incandescent bulbs can.
- Turn the lights off at night or when you leave the house.
- Aim for the Right Room Conditions
- Lower room temperature when possible.
- Use a humidifier if your home is very dry—trees last longer with a little humidity.
- Check Water Daily
- For the first week, check morning and night.
- After that, once per day is usually enough.
- Never let it go dry.
- Minimize Excess Handling
- Once it’s decorated and in place, avoid dragging it around or bumping it.
Stress accelerates needle drop.