How to keep your Christmas tree fresh for longer: 7 tips

With the right care a Nordmann fir can stay beautiful for four to six weeks. The secret? Mostly water, and a spot that isn't too warm. These seven tips help you get the most out of your real Christmas tree.

1. Use a stand with a water reservoir

A tree without water dries out within a few days. Choose a stand that holds at least a few litres. Don't have one yet? You can add a sturdy Christmas tree stand with a water reservoir to your order.

2. Water straight away

Fill the stand as soon as the tree is up. A tree drinks the most in the first few days, sometimes more than a litre a day. Plain tap water is fine; sugar, aspirin and other home remedies aren't needed.

3. Check the water level every day

This is the most important tip. If the bottom of the trunk dries out, it seals itself with resin and the tree absorbs water much less well afterwards. Make it a habit: check and top up every morning.

4. Choose a cool spot

Don't place the tree right next to a radiator, stove or fireplace, or in full sun in front of a large window. Heat dries out the needles. A spot a metre away from the radiator already makes a big difference.

5. Turn the heating down a degree

A slightly cooler room is good for your tree and your energy bill. At night the heating can go down a bit further.

6. Use LED lights

Old-fashioned bulbs get warm and dry out the branches around them. LED lights stay cool, use less power and are safer.

7. Take it down in time

After four to six weeks a tree is past its best. If it starts to dry out noticeably, take it down; a dry tree is also a fire risk. Choose pickup after Christmas when ordering and I'll collect it in the period 2–10 January.

New to the Netherlands? Read our guide to Christmas trees for expats in The Hague, or order a real Nordmann Christmas tree delivered and set up at home.