Cut Christmas Trees
Cut Christmas trees need to be fresh when purchased. You can check this by doing a freshness test. Gently grasp a branch between your thumb and finger and pull it toward you. A few needles may come off but the number should be minimal. It is natural to have some needle loss especially from the underside if the Christmas tree is very bushy. This is due to the sun not being able to penetrate the thick foliage resulting in a consentration of growth on the outside foliage, while the inner foliage dies. This does not mean the Christmas tree is not fresh. The underside of most Christmas trees will appear dull.
How to care for a cut Christmas tree
When you get your Christmas tree and you're not decorating it straight away, leave it outside or somewhere cool. As long as it is left outside until required, you may not need to place it in water. However, before placing it in the water or the water-retaining stand, cut about 2cm off the stump so the tree can take up water. Scoring the butt end so new wood is visible will also have the desired effect. Place your Christmas tree in its spot, away from direct heat and radiators, and top up with water. The Christmas tree can drink up to 2 litres a day so check the level daily. Our Quickstand is ideal for holding the tree securely and watering. Never use sand as this dries the Christmas tree.
After about 2 weeks the Christmas tree will begin to shut down and will not drink anymore. Treat the Christmas tree as you would a bunch of flowers.
We have found that the needle retention sprays that are available now offer limited or very little protection. It is more cost effective to purchase a needle holding tree.
