I’m a festive expert – my tree trick will keep it fresh for weeks, you’ll already have what you need in your kitchen
THOSE of us who put up our Christmas trees early might be noticing that they could be starting to falter a little now that it’s been a few weeks.
And with the big day just around the corner, we’ll want it looking its best – especially if we have friends and family coming over.
Some of us take the tree down right after Christmas Day, but according to tradition, they should stay up until the Twelfth Night.
This is a Christian festival that marks the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas, and this year, it falls on Sunday, January 5, which means the tree could be staying up for another two weeks.
So if you have noticed your tree looking a little drab, then you’ve come to the right place because we’ve got a clever hack to make it look better than ever.
A festive expert has revealed how to keep your real Christmas tree fresher for longer.
Experts at The British Christmas Tree Growers Association said their top four tips keep it fresh for the whole festive season – and the best thing is you already have everything you need at home.
Russell Parkins, Chair of The British Christmas Tree Growers Association said: “Christmas trees are the centrepiece for so many homes across the country at Christmas.
Christmas trees are the centrepiece for so many homes across the country at Christmas… The most important thing, in my opinion, is that you have one
Russell Parkins
“And whether or not you have a real or artificial tree, the most important thing, in my opinion, is that you have one.
“As a rule of thumb, if you have a real tree, make sure you recycle it appropriately so that it can be chipped and used as compost, and if you have a fake tree, use it for at least 10 years to reduce the carbon footprint.
“As a Christmas Tree Grower myself, I am an advocate of taking a trip to your local Christmas Tree Farm to choose a real tree because it is a chance to connect with nature and spend quality time with your family.
“There is a helpful online directory on the British Christmas Tree Growers Association website, where you can find your local grower.
Trim the base and place the tree in boiling water
The great thing about these tips is that you already have what you need in your kitchen – boiling water.
Experts suggest putting the tree in roasting hot water as this helps keep it hydrated for longer.
They advised: “Once you’re home with your brand-new tree, cut about an inch off the trunk’s base.
“By cutting the base, this will allow the tree to absorb water more effectively, keeping it hydrated for longer, as a hydrated tree is less likely to shed needles and keep its vibrant colour.
“It’s key to get your tree in water as soon as possible, however, if your tree is trimmed when at the farm and your first watering is delayed, don’t panic!
“To encourage hydration from your tree, you can use boiling water, as this will help any hardened sap to soften, and the tree to open up and soak up water from future watering.
“Continue to use boiled water to top up your tree throughout the season.”
Keep it well-fed
Even if you put it in water when you bring it home, it’s important to keep topping it up throughout the season.
The experts explain: “Besides placing it in water immediately, it’s important to continue watering the tree over time – just as you would with flowers and normal houseplants.
“In fact, a real Christmas tree can drink up to a litre of water per day, so keeping fresh water topped up is essential for the trees’ health.
“A tree can take up to 48 hours to start drinking water, so it’s recommended to check the water level daily, and refill with freshly boiled water as needed.”
Avoid heat
Making sure your tree sits away from a heat source is also key to make sure it lasts for as long as possible.
And where they sit in the room can actually have a bigger impact than you think.
Experts say: “Trees dry out quickly when exposed to heat, so keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, and direct sunlight where possible.
“It’s also recommended to keep the room temperature slightly cooler to help the tree retain its moisture.
“As well as this, Christmas lights can also contribute to drying out the tree, so consider opting for some energy-efficient LED lights, as these produce less heat which both saves energy, and helps your tree stay fresh longer.”
Fuller Christmas tree hack
A SAVVY Christmas fan left social media users stunned earlier this month after revealing her very simple trick that gives her artifical tree a fuller look.
Posting on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Facebook group, which boasts 2.6million members, Sandra said: “The lower third of my tree, I move the branches over to the front.
“This helps me place the tree closer to the wall and always makes the tree look fuller.
“Not a bargain just a hack. I’ve done this for a few years now.”
Sharing a before and after picture of the tree, Sandra’s tree looks immediately fuller with no gaps visible between the branches.
Her post quickly racked up almost 1,000 likes with other Christmas fanatics left shocked that this is the first they’ve heard of the festive hack.
One person exclaimed: “Why have I never thought of this? Thank you.”
Someone else echoed: “Omg how did everyone else know about this and I didn’t thank you.”
Another said: “I didn’t know you could do this but glad I saw this post when I did because I am just getting my tree out. Thank you.”
Increase humidity with weekly misting
There’s more to keeping your tree hydrated than just watering it at the base.
Experts suggest misting the branches every week for optimal hydration.
They said: “If it isn’t already obvious, keeping your tree hydrated is vital for its health and growth, and besides keeping the water topped up, you should also be misting the branches.
“This will help to maintain moisture levels of the tree, and keep the needles from drying out.
“To do this, use a spray bottle to lightly mist the tree once or twice a week.
“This mimics the natural humidity that trees would receive outdoors, helping to preserve their needles and keep that fresh, green look for longer.”