A real Christmas tree brings a special holiday atmosphere. There's something about the smell and tradition. However, there are also great advantages to artificial trees, and more people are choosing them. If you're unsure which option to go for, you can read more in our guide to artificial Christmas trees. In this article, we'll share our best tips for keeping a real, live Christmas tree looking beautiful throughout the holiday season.
Tips for Choosing a Christmas Tree
To ensure your tree lasts as long as possible without shedding, it should be cut no earlier than mid-November. If the needles fall off easily when you run your fingers through the branches, that's a bad sign. Take your time to find a tree where the needles are firmly attached. Even if the tree looks good at first glance, always check that the needles near the trunk are fresh and healthy.
Our trees are cut 5–7 days before being delivered to the stores. This allows the tree to settle for a few days before it's packed, making it more resilient for transport while ensuring you get a fresh, high-quality tree.
Trees absorb water between the bark and wood, and this ability weakens if the trunk is shaved. A great tip is to bring your tree stand when you go to buy the tree.
Transporting the Tree Home
Once you've chosen your favorite Christmas tree, the next step is to transport it home. If you're strapping it to the roof of your car for a longer drive, it's a good idea to have the tree wrapped in plastic or netting to protect it from the strong wind.
When Should You Set Up Your Tree?
It used to be a tradition in Norway to wait until Christmas Eve to put up the tree, but in recent years, more people have been setting it up much earlier. Maybe that’s not such a bad idea? Studies actually show that putting up Christmas decorations earlier can make us happier. Whether you want to decorate earlier than you did growing up or stick to tradition – do it with confidence. Create the Christmas that suits you and your family best.
How to Set Up Your Tree
- Remove the netting so the branches can unfold.
- Ideally, let the tree sit in a cool place, such as a garage or outside against a wall, before bringing it into the warmth. Remember to remove the netting when letting it acclimate. The best time to bring the tree inside is when the weather is mild, so the temperature difference isn’t too extreme.
- Make a fresh cut at the base of the trunk with an axe or saw, and place the tree in water, preferably while it's still outside if the weather is mild.
- Once inside, place the tree in a sturdy stand and ensure the trunk is always submerged in water.
- Now it’s time to start decorating your tree with ornaments!
How to Care for Your Christmas Tree
- Keep the Tree Away from Heat Sources
Avoid placing your tree near heat sources like a radiator or fireplace, as this can cause it to shed needles faster. - Water Your Tree Generously and Often
A conifer tree loses moisture through its needles. If it doesn’t get enough water, the needles will end up on the floor before you know it. For better water absorption, it’s a good idea to cut a 2–3 cm (1-inch) slice off the bottom of the trunk. - Give Extra Water to the Norwegian Spruce
The most popular Christmas tree variety in Norway is the Norwegian spruce. It’s also the most sensitive to drying out, so make sure it gets enough water. If possible, spray the tree with a water mist to help prevent it from drying out. - Avoid Using Cold Water
Whether you have a spruce or fir tree, they prefer lukewarm water.
Good luck and Merry Christmas!