How long should your Christmas tree last? Tips to extend its lifespan

Holidays with friends and family are even more special with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. If you choose to have a real tree, you might be curious about how long it will last and how to keep it healthy for as long as possible. Several important factors come into play, including the tree’s origin, decorations, and needle drop.

Below are ways on how long you should expect your Christmas tree to last and how to keep it healthy.

How long does a Christmas tree last

A newly fresh-cut Christmas tree typically lasts 3 to 4 weeks with the right care. Your tree will stay fresher when kept well hydrated and placed away from fireplaces, heat vents, or any other direct heat source. A white fir tree variant will last from 4 to 6 weeks if well-maintained. If your Christmas tree is left unattended, then expect a 2-week timeframe for it to last.

So start by choosing a healthy tree that feels fresh and flexible to help extend its lifespan. The best recommendation would be running your hand along the branches of the tree when selecting it. Be sure to select a tree that doesn’t shed needles. Immediately make a fresh cut, place the tree in water immediately, and keep the stand filled at all times so it stays refreshed.

Image Credit: Pexels

Caring for the tree

It may be a Christmas tree, but water is the most important part of Christmas tree care. Your Christmas tree should never be allowed to dry out, so ensuring its stand is always filled will benefit both you and your tree.

Before placing the tree in the stand, give the trunk a fresh cut by removing the bottom half of the branches. This helps the tree absorb water more effectively. Also essential is to keep the tree in a cool spot and avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight. Be mindful of the decorations you use. A decorated tree is a beautiful one, yes, but if you’re going to use lights, opt for LED options. They consume much less energy and emit 10 times less heat than traditional incandescent lights.