Garden Guide · Christmas
How to Keep a Fresh-Cut Christmas Tree Fresh
Short answer: get it into water within a few hours of the fresh cut, use a stand that holds plenty of water, check the water every day, and keep the tree away from heat. A fresh-cut tree cared for this way stays green through the holidays.
Step by step
- Ask for a fresh cut. A thin slice off the base opens the trunk so it can drink. Get the tree into water within a few hours.
- Use a big enough stand. Stands hold different amounts of water — for a large tree, pick one that holds at least a gallon. We carry tree stands at the counter.
- Check the water every day. A fresh tree can drink a lot in the first week. Never let the water drop below the base of the trunk.
- Keep it cool. Set the tree away from heat registers, fireplaces and sunny windows, and turn lights off when you leave or go to bed.
- Take it down when it dries. If needles fall when you brush the branches, it’s time. A tree removal bag keeps the mess off the floor.
Troy’s trees this year
Fresh-cut trees, Fraser fir and more, 3–5′ up to 10–11′, starting at $45 — arriving Thursday, November 19. Christmas tree delivery is $100. Christmas prices, hours and the Open House →