Keeping your tree fresh

1. Water, water, water

Water is the most important thing. A fresh-cut tree can drink a lot, especially in the first week. Check the stand every day and keep the water level above the bottom of the trunk. Don’t let it run dry. Once the cut end seals over with sap, the tree can’t take up water well again.

As a rule of thumb, a tree drinks about a quart of water a day for every inch of trunk thickness. A tree with a 4″ trunk needs about a gallon a day.

2. Keep it cool

Put your tree in the coolest room in the house, and keep it away from heat sources like heater vents, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and sunny windows. The warmer the spot, the faster the tree dries out.

3. Pick a stand that holds plenty of water

Choose a stand with a large water reservoir, about a quart for every inch of trunk thickness. Make sure the stand fits the tree. Please don’t whittle the sides of the trunk to make it fit, because the outer layers of wood are what take up water best.

4. Fresh cut before the stand

If your tree has been sitting more than a few hours since it was cut, saw about a half inch off the bottom, straight across, before you put it in water. We’re happy to make a fresh cut for you at the lot. Don’t cut at an angle or in a V.

5. Settle in

• Bring it inside and get it into water as soon as you can.
• Branches often relax and drop for a day or two after coming indoors. That’s normal.
• Use LED lights if you can. They run cooler than old-style bulbs.
• Turn the lights off when you leave the house or go to bed.
• Take the tree down when it starts to dry out.

Questions?

Ask us at the lot, or call or text (707) 579-8474.

Based on guidance from the National Christmas Tree Association and university extension services.