🎄 How to Look After Your Real Christmas Tree 1. Give it a Fresh Cut (if not already done) Before placing your tree in its stand: Saw 1–2 cm off the bottom of the trunk. This opens up the pores so the tree can absorb water properly. If Bosworths trimmed it for you at purchase, you can skip this step as long as you get it in water within an hour. Otherwise, give it another light cut. 2. Put It in Water Immediately Real Christmas trees drink a surprising amount. Use a stand that holds at least 2–3 litres of water. Make sure the trunk is always submerged. Never let it dry out — once the base seals with sap, it won’t drink again. 3. Top Up the Water Daily A freshly cut tree can drink up to 1 litre a day during the first week. Check the water level every morning. Keep it topped right up to the brim. 4. Choose the Right Location Keep the tree away from: Radiators Underfloor heating Open fires / wood burners Direct sunlight Warm draughts Warmth speeds up needle drop. Cool rooms = happy tree! 5. Use a Proper Christmas Tree Stand A sturdy water-holding stand is essential. Avoid buckets filled with stones (unsafe and unstable). A clamp-style or screw-in stand designed for cut Christmas trees is ideal. 6. Keep the Ideal Room Temperature Lower temperatures make the tree last longer. If possible, keep the room cool when you’re not home. Turn radiators to low in that room. 7. Avoid Spray-On “Tree Preservatives” Most sprays don’t help and can clog the pores.Clean water is best — no sugar, lemonade, aspirin, or other myths. 8. If You Have a Rooted/Potted Tree If you bought a potted or root-balled tree from Bosworths: Water the soil, not just the stand. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. After Christmas, move it to a sheltered outdoor spot. Replant in the garden in early spring if you want it to grow on. 9. Check for Dry Spots or Needles A little shedding is normal, but excessive loss may mean: It’s too warm. It has run out of water. The cut has sealed (rare if you don’t let it dry out). Lower the room temperature and ensure daily watering. 🎁 How Long Should It Last? With good care: Nordmann firs (very common at Bosworths) last 3–5 weeks with minimal needle drop. Norway spruces last 2–3 weeks, so keep them cool and hydrated.