How to care for your fresh cut Christmas tree

Whether this Christmas is your first or your fiftieth year with a fresh cut Christmas tree, it never hurts to brush up on the basics.

​1. Know your stand
Not all stands are created equal! Go for a larger reservoir to help keep your tree fresher, longer.
Pro Tip: Stands should provide 1 quart of water per inch of trunk diameter.

2. Make sure you have a fresh cut for the tree to absorb water.
Remove 1/2″ from the base of the trunk before you display your tree in your home.
Pro Tip: All retail outlets should provide the fresh cut for you. Just ask!

3. Water immediately 
Be sure to get your tree into water as soon as you get home. Keep the water level above the base of the trunk.
Pro Tip: Not setting up your tree immediately? Put it in a bucket or tub of water in the garage.

4. Plan your placement
Maximize the life of your tree by picking a spot that is not immediately exposed to sources of heat and strong sunlight, which can accelerate the drying process.
Pro Tip: When possible, avoid windows with southern exposure. They have the strongest sunlight.

5. Water often
A well watered tree will last much longer. Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree, as there can still be water in the stand even though the base of the tree is no longer submerged!
Pro Tip: Assign the job to one person in your home, at a set time each day.

6. Plan to recycle
Monitor the tree for freshness regularly. After Christmas or if the tree is very dry, remove it from your house and take advantage of a recycling program near you!

​Link to Montgomery County guide to recycling your Christmas Tree:  

www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/dephowdoi/material.aspx?tag=christmas-trees&material_key=47