Image: SolStock/Istock.com via AFP Relaxnews
For many people, the holiday season is synonymous with a freshly cut Christmas tree. Before decking it out in baubles and lights, here are a few ways to help keep a cut tree looking good for longer this holiday season.
Let it breathe
Once you’ve bought your tree, remove the net that bundles up its branches as soon as possible. The branches need to spread out and settle into place. This will also help prevent the tree from overheating.
Ease it in
Try not to expose the tree to quick changes in temperature. Get it used to indoor warmth progressively by standing it in a cool room on on a balcony for 24 to 48 hours.
Give it a drink
It is recommended to saw a little bit off the base of the tree and stand it in water for a few hours.
Keep away from heat sources
A tree next to an open fire is a beautiful sight, but it’s not so good for the tree. Any source of heat, like a radiator, an open fire, a bright light, a TV or a sunny window, will dry out the tree, causing it to lose its color and its needles.
Stay sheltered
A tree won’t appreciate being in a drafty place or somewhere where there’s a lot of coming and going. Drafts will dry out the tree and people brushing past will make it lose its needles.
Spritz before decorating
It is advisable to spray the tree with water at room temperature before decorating.
Keep it quenched
Keep the foot of the tree moist in a bucket filled with sand or by pouring a cup of water onto the base.
No artificial snow
Go easy or pass completely on fake snow, like snow spray, which tends to dry out tree branches. JB
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