Looking After Your Christmas Tree
Keep your tree fresh for the festive season.
Real Christmas trees continue to take up water after they've been harvested. With the right care, your tree can stay fresh and looking its best for up to four weeks.
The secret is simple: keep your tree watered, choose a cool spot away from direct sunlight and follow these tips.
How to care for your Christmas tree
1. Give your tree a fresh cut
If your tree has been out of water for more than four hours, trim approximately 2.5 cm (one inch) from the base of the trunk with a straight cut. This exposes fresh wood and helps the tree absorb water.
Place the freshly cut trunk into water as soon as possible.
2. Choose the right stand
Use a sturdy tree stand with a water reservoir that holds at least two litres. Larger trees may need more water, so choose a stand with enough capacity to keep the base of the trunk submerged. You can purchase a tree stand from one of our many tree selling locations, we have a range of sizes, perfect to fit your tree.
3. Keep the water topped up
Always keep the cut end of the trunk in water. Check the water level daily and top it up as needed, particularly during the first few days when your tree may take up more water.
If the base dries out, the cut surface can become less able to absorb water, causing the tree to dry out more quickly.
Plain tap water is all you need. There's no need to add aspirin, sugar or other commercial additives.
4. Choose a cool spot
Keep your tree away from direct sunlight, heaters and other sources of heat. In Perth's summer weather, a cooler position indoors will help your tree stay fresh for longer.
5. Decorate safely
Check Christmas light cords for wear or damage before use. Always use approved electrical decorations and cords and switch off and unplug your lights before going to bed or leaving home.
LED or miniature lights produce less heat, helping to reduce drying and the risk of fire.
Handy tips
Do I need to trim the trunk again?
Not necessarily. If your tree is placed in water promptly after a fresh cut and the base stays submerged, you shouldn't need to trim it again. If the cut end has dried out, a fresh cut may help restore water uptake.
How can I water my tree without disturbing the decorations?
A funnel and a length of tubing can make topping up your tree stand easier. Position the tubing discreetly behind the tree so you can add water without moving the tree skirt or decorations.
How long will my tree last?
Many fresh-cut trees can last four weeks or longer with proper care, although this depends on the tree species and conditions in your home. Take your tree down before it becomes excessively dry.
Ready to find your tree?
Visit one of our seasonal selling locations across Perth and the South West to choose your favourite and take it home on the day.