Christmas Tree Care
A Christmas tree needs special attention, just follow a few simple steps and it will retain it's colour and shape throughout the Christmas period.
Cut Trees
Before use, store the tree outside in cool natural conditions, away from wind and
direct sunlight. As long as it is left outside until required, you do not need to place it in
water.
Before placing it in the water or water-retaining stand cut about 2cm off the stump so the tree can take up water. Scoring the butt end so new wood is visible will also have the desired effect. Place your tree in its spot, away from direct heat and radiators and top up with water. The tree can drink up to 2 litres a day so check the level daily.
After about 2 weeks the tree will begin to shut down and will not drink anymore. Treat the tree as you would a bunch of flowers.
We have found that the needle retention sprays that are available now offer limited or very little protection. It is more cost effective to purchase a needle holding tree.
Pot Grown Trees
Pot grown trees are just that, trees that have been grown in pots. These will have a
higher chance of survival after Christmas. The only drawback of pot grown trees is that when they
get 5ft and above the roots can burst from the growing pot. The main root is still there but there
may be some roots visible.
Pot grown trees need to be watered regularly and at no point should they be left to dry out as this will harm the tree. It may be beneficial to re-pot the tree when you get it especially if you want to keep it in a container for the next growing season. We would recommend that any trees over 5ft be re-potted or planted out straightaway. This is due to the tree being unstable as the pot may be too small for a large tree.
If you want to re-plant after Christmas acclimatise it first by leaving it in a sheltered spot and keeping it well watered. Do not plant in an exposed position. A good growing medium will be helpful whether it is to go in a pot or the ground.
