The Ultimate Christmas Tree Care Guide

Whether you love a natural classic or a perfectly shaped artificial one, the Christmas tree is the heart and soul of Christmas for many people!

We know that for a real tree to last (November decorators we see you!) your tree will need a little TLC, so we’ve spoken to our Plant Buyer Richard for all the tips and tricks.

The Magic of a Real Tree: Choosing and Sourcing

Forget the old days of constantly sweeping! Modern cut trees retain their needles much longer than the traditional Norway Spruce. When you’re choosing your tree, look specifically for a Nordmann Fir; they are widely considered to have the best needle retention while keeping the fresh, invigorating scent!

Three Simple Care Tips for Cut Trees

Keep your natural tree looking its absolute best throughout this demanding season with these quick tips:

Select for Your Space:

• Large Trees: Best for tall ceilings or as a grand focal point in open hallways.
• Medium/Small Trees: Ideal for an average-sized living room.
• Odd Shapes: Utilise them! A tree with a flat side is perfect for positioning flush against a wall, while a wide base suits a corner beautifully

Store It Well (Before Moving Indoors):

• If you’re not decorating immediately, remove the protective netting and keep the tree in a cool, wind-sheltered spot.
• Keeping the foliage slightly wet while the tree is outside will help it stay fresh for longer.
• Best practice is to place the trunk in a bucket of water to keep it hydrated.

Make It Last Indoors:

• A real Christmas tree can drink up to three pints of water per day, especially in a heated room!
• Always use a water-holding stand and check the reservoir daily to keep it topped up.
• Keep the tree away from direct heat sources, such as fires or hot radiators—this will significantly prolong its life.

Sustainable Festivities: Caring for Pot-Grown Trees

Looking for a real tree that you can plant outside after Christmas? Our British pot-grown trees are the wonderfully sustainable option.

These trees started life as small seedlings and have taken many years to reach their current size. They are delivered in a special climate bag to retain moisture and the micro-climate around their roots, keeping them fresh and healthy for your celebrations.

A Two-Part Plan for Pot-Grown Success

Part 1: During the Festive Season

• Upon Arrival: Keep the tree outside, remove the netting, and water it well.
• Bringing It In: When ready to decorate, bring it indoors. Remember to place a saucer or waterproof container underneath to catch drainage.
• Watering: Always keep the soil moist, especially when the central heating is on.
• Post-Holidays: As soon as the festivities are over, return the tree outdoors.

Part 2: When It’s Time to Plant

• Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is the same depth but twice as wide as the pot. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole.
• Remove the Pot: Gently remove the tree from its pot and packaging, taking care not to disturb the root ball too much.
• Plant and Fill: Place the tree in the hole and backfill it using a 50:50 mix of topsoil and general-purpose compost.
• Finish: Gently firm the soil in place and water generously.

By following these simple steps, your tree will thrive and grow on for many years!

Bonus Tip: Fresh Wreaths Need Love Too!

Did you know fresh wreaths should be always kept moist to retain freshness? Here’s how we keep them looking lovely for longer:

• Using a spray bottle, spray your wreath front and back anytime the wreath is starting to feel dry

So, there we have it, our expert has spoken! We’re off to explore our options, and you should too! Pop into your local Haskins for more advice on choosing the right tree for you and your space.

For more advice from experts, check out the gardening articles on our website! Seasonal Advice – Haskins Garden Centres