Healthy Tree
The farther the tree traveled, the more it was exposed to drying winds. So, choose one with little to no brown needles or dry branches. This winter is milder again, so pick trees that have been kept in the shade rather than in direct sunlight.
Run your hand over a few branches—needles shouldn’t fall off. They should feel flexible and almost moist. Lift the tree slightly and drop it back on the ground. The fewer needles left on the floor, the fresher the tree.
Cut the Trunk!
If you bring the tree home but don’t decorate it right away, and it stays in the garage or garden for a few days, ask the seller to cut the trunk fresh. This helps the tree absorb water better, just like when you trim flower stems before placing them in a vase.
Keep the tree in a spot protected from wind and sun until you bring it indoors. Nowadays, you can find Christmas tree stands that hold water, which also helps extend the tree’s life.
Keep It Away from Heaters!
A beautifully decorated tree by the fireplace looks cozy, but the closer it is to heat, the faster it dries out. Avoid placing your tree near convectors, radiators, or any heating source for the same reason.
Since the tree usually stands in the living room and we sleep in the bedroom, lowering the heat in the tree’s room at bedtime can help a lot. You don’t need to freeze, but cooler air keeps your tree fresh longer.
Humidify
If your home tends to be dry, the holiday season makes it even drier with baking and heating. Dry air speeds up needle loss, so a humidifier placed near your tree works wonders. It’s great not only for your tree but also for your skin.
Take It Down Before It’s Completely Dry
Don’t wait until more needles are on the floor than on the tree. After the holidays, taking down decorations can feel sad—especially if the tree is already dry and yellowed. If you still have some nice branches, keep them and decorate with a few white ornaments for a beautiful winter centerpiece that’s not Christmas-themed. This makes saying goodbye to the season easier and helps you look forward to spring.
