Deck The Halls: Tips To Give Your Real Christmas Tree Longevity
DETROIT (WWJ) - We're less than a month away from Christmas and metro Detroiters are bringing more of the holiday spirit into their homes.
If you're putting up a real Christmas tree this year, the Executive Director of the Michigan Christmas Tree Association has a few reminders about keeping your tree from drying out too quickly.
Marsha Gray, the association's Executive Director, said Michigan is the third largest in the nation for growing Christmas trees. She said the state has more varieties of trees than any other -- so finding a tree that's fresh shouldn't be too hard.
"We're here in Michigan so the trees are very fresh, they're very local. But you want to feel that tree and make sure it feels soft and supple," she said.
If you're not going to put the tree up right away, Gray suggests keeping the tree in a bucket of water in a sheltered area outdoors.
"When you're ready to bring it inside, it needs to have a fresh cut and be put straight into water. If you keep it watered, you're good to go for the whole season," she said.
And don't think you can make your tree last longer by adding anything fancy to the water.
"Please don't put anything in the water. Plain water, we've done testing, is the best option. And then we usually just suggest that you check it at least twice a day for the first few days, and after that watering it once a day should be plenty," Gray said.
Wondering where to get a fresh, beautiful tree? Read our guide to Christmas tree farms in metro Detroit.
