Top Tips for Looking After Your Christmas Tree

These simple rules will help you gain maximum enjoyment from your tree:

• When you bring your tree home, take it out of its netting as soon as possible. This prevents mould and fungus growing in damp branches.
• Take it outside and give it a good shake to remove any insects and needles loosened in transit.
• Saw about 5cm (2”) off the bottom of the trunk and place it in a bucket of water, if you’re not going to put it up immediately. Make the cut perpendicular to the stem axis. Don't cut at an angle or in a ‘V’ shape.
• Water is the single most important means of looking after your tree. An average sized fresh-cut tree can consume up to four litres (1 gallon) of water in the first 24 hours after being cut; and then up to a 1-2 litres (1/4-1/2 a gallon) every day after that, depending on its size and your home’s heating system.
• If you have under-floor heating, then your ‘log-based’ tree needs to be placed in a bowl or tray which is always kept topped up with water.
• Tree stands with a built-in reservoir are the best way to support your tree and keep it watered.
• Avoid putting your cut tree in sand or soil - this reduces the amount of water it can absorb.
• Make sure that the water level doesn’t get below about 3cm (1”) from the bottom of the trunk.
• There is no advantage to drilling a hole into the centre of the base of the trunk - the live part of the trunk is around the edge, just under the bark.
• Position your tree away from direct heat sources (radiators, direct sunlight, fires, etc.).
• If your tree is pot-grown, make sure you place its pot on a dish and keep it watered.

If you have any questions, please ask a member of staff. We’re always happy to help.

Merry Christmas!

The Lancasters Team.