How to Keep It Merry & Bright

O Christmas Tree

Holidays in full swing? Here's how to keep your Christmas tre-e looking its best!

It sure is easy to get swept up in the gift shopping, festive events, and all the Local-e fun happening around the Evansville Region. But in the middle of all that merry chaos, it’s surprisingly easy to drop the ball on caring for the centerpiece of your season, your Christmas tree. Don’t worry; we’ve got a quick, practical guide to help keep your tree looking fresh, bright, and photo-ready all month long.

Christmas Tre

How To Care for Your Christmas Tree!

☝️ 1. Start with a fresh cut

When you bring the tree home, trim ½ inch off the bottom of the trunk.

This removes dried sap and opens the tree’s pores so it can drink water.

 

✌️ 2. Get it into water within an hour

 

Trees start sealing over fast. Place it in a stand that holds at least 1 gallon of water.

 

💧 3. Water daily (no exceptions!)

 

Check the stand every day for the first week. Trees drink a surprising amount early on.


Never let the waterline drop below the base of the trunk or the tree stops drinking.


 

🚫 4. Skip the gimmicks

 

Sugar, aspirin, bleach, Sprite, and commercial “tree preservatives” don’t provide meaningful benefits.

Plain tap water is best.

 

📍 5. Pick the right spot

 

Keep the tree away from heaters, fireplaces, and direct sunlight.


Lower heat in that room if you can; cooler air keeps the tree fresher longer.


Avoid placing it over floor vents!


 

💪 6. Secure the tree

 

Make sure the stand is sturdy, and the tree is straight.

A leaning tree dries out faster and is a safety risk.

 

💡 7. Use cooler lights

 

LED lights stay cool and reduce drying.

Turn lights off at night or use a timer.

 

👀 8. Monitor for dryness

 

If needles fall off in large amounts, or branches feel brittle, it’s time to remove them; don’t wait until they become a fire risk.