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How to care for your Christmas tree (and stop those needles dropping)

Christmas tree with lights
[Photo: Pexels]

You’ve done it: After years of dragging that plastic Christmas tree out of the attic, you’ve decided to get a real life tree for once. After all, a real Christmas tree and that glorious pine fragrance is what Christmas is all about.

But there’s a downside. The expense aside, there’s no denying that buying a real tree – it is a plant, after all – comes with a few more responsibilities if you want it looking green and healthy right through the festive period.

Fortunately, there are plenty of easy tricks to ensure your fir is cared for.

We spoke to savvy online gardening centre Patch, a genius new start-up that not only delivers your tree but also disposes of it – in an environmentally friendly manner – once January hits, who shared their top tips on Christmas tree care.

Christmas tree
[Photo: Pexels]

When to buy

This all depends on the species of tree you opt for – you can buy non-drop trees much earlier, but if you get one with finer needles, purchase it in early December at the earliest for it to last the full month.

Cutting the trunk

To ensure it has a long lush life, cut the base of your tree’s trunk. As they’re usually cut weeks before they’re sold the base of the tree can be clogged up with sap, making it difficult for the tree to absorb water.

So if you cut it again, it’ll be able to take in water – and those needles won’t drop off. Clever, eh?

Christmas tree with decoration
[Photo: Pexels]

Water it

If you want it to stay healthy, you need to water it – just like any living, breathing plant. Place it in a tree stand and check its water levels daily so that it stays hydrated and has plump moist needles over the entire festive season.

Keep it away from heat sources

TVs, radiators and fireplaces all count, and though sparkly lights are a must, use LED ones as they give off less heat. This will prevent it drying out.

Christmas lights in tree
[Photo: Pexels]

Use a ceiling hook

If you’re a fan of tall trees, you could consider using a ceiling hook to make sure it doesn’t fall down.

Do most of the above, and you’ll be sure to have a luscious green tree for the rest of December.

How do you care for your Christmas tree? Tweet us at @YahooStyleUK.

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