How to Care for Your Real Christmas Tree

Fresh Cut Trees

Keep your tree fresh, green and full of festive life all season long by following these simple steps.

1. Give it a fresh cut

Before placing your tree in water, trim about 2-3cm off the base of the trunk.
This opens up the pores and helps the tree absorb water more effectively.

2. Place your tree in water

As soon as you get home, place your tree in water - don’t leave it sitting dry.
Use a sturdy stand that holds at least 2-3 litres of water, and keep the base submerged at all times.

3. Keep it hydrated

Check the water level daily - trees are thirsty!
A fresh tree can drink up to a litre of water per day, especially in the first few days.
If the base dries out even once, a sap seal can form, preventing it from taking up water again.

4. Choose the right spot

Place your tree away from direct sunlight, heaters, fireplaces, or air conditioners.
Heat will dry the needles quickly. A cool, shaded spot keeps it fresher for longer.

5. Avoid additives

Plain water is best! Home remedy additives like sugar, aspirin or soft drinks don’t make a difference - just keep the water level topped up.

6. Disposal or replanting

Once the season’s over, you can take your tree to your local green waste or compost facility.

Potted Trees

Keep your living tree happy and healthy, through Christmas and beyond!

1. Choose the right spot

Place your tree in a cool, bright location indoors, away from direct sunlight, heaters, fireplaces, or air conditioning.
A cooler spot helps it stay lush and green for longer.

2. Water regularly

Check the soil every day - it should always feel slightly damp, not dry or soggy.
Water slowly until it begins to drain from the bottom, then stop.
Never let the pot sit in standing water.

3. After Christmas care

After Christmas, move it outside to a shaded, sheltered spot. Potted trees are living plants and prefer the outdoors.
Continue to water regularly (especially during warm weather).
If you’d like to keep it as a potted tree to use again next year, we recommend repotting it into a slightly larger container to allow root growth. This will need to be done every 1-2 years. Alternatively, replant it in your garden if space allows.
In spring, give your tree a light dose of slow-release fertiliser to support new growth and keep it healthy for next Christmas.