How to Keep Your Live Christmas Tree Fresh

Keeping a live Christmas tree fresh is all about water, placement, and a little TLC. Here’s how to make it last through the holidays 🎄

 

1. Cut the trunk (yes, again)
Before placing the tree in the stand, cut about ½ inch off the bottom of the trunk. This opens up the pores so the tree can absorb water properly.

 

2. Water immediately—and daily
A live tree can drink up to a gallon of water a day at first. Keep the stand filled at all times; if the water level drops below the cut, the trunk can reseal and stop absorbing water.

 

3. Keep it cool
Place the tree away from heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, vents, and direct sunlight. Heat dries it out fast.

 

4. Use plain water only

No sugar, aspirin, soda, or additives—fresh tap water works best and keeps the tree hydrated naturally.

 

5. Check humidity
If your home is very dry, running a humidifier nearby (not directly on the tree) can help slow needle loss.

 

6. Choose the right spot and lights
Use LED lights, which produce less heat than traditional bulbs, helping prevent drying.

 

Bonus tip: If you can, let the tree sit in a bucket of water outdoors or in a garage for a day before bringing it inside—this helps it fully hydrate first.

 

A well-watered tree stays greener, smells better, drops fewer needles, and is safer too. Little effort, big holiday payoff ✨