When to put up a real Christmas tree: advice on keeping it fresh

A cut Christmas tree bought too early may be past its best by Christmas Day, a tree grower has warned, as UK retailers begin selling trees weeks before the holiday. The Royal Horticultural Society says cut trees should usually last about four weeks with proper care, while Tesco says its trees come with instructions intended to keep them looking their best until Christmas.

Mick Walker, of Bolton Christmas Trees, recommends putting up a cut tree about a week before Christmas Eve. He told the BBC that an early-bought tree might last until the start of the festive period but could be sagging by Christmas Day. His advice is not the only factor: how long a tree lasts depends on its type and care, and some retailers say their trees can last four to six weeks.

To keep a cut tree fresh, Walker advises regular watering, spraying its foliage, keeping it cool and placing it away from radiators. Forestry England recommends trimming about 1.2cm from the trunk’s base when bringing the tree home, to remove hardened sap and help it absorb water. It says additives such as cola or corn syrup are unnecessary: a constant supply of fresh water is what the tree needs.

A potted tree can be brought indoors for Christmas and returned outside afterwards, but the RHS advises keeping it indoors for no more than 12 days and bringing it in as late as possible. It recommends the weekend before Christmas as an ideal time.

The choice of tree also matters. Nordmann firs are popular because they do not readily shed their needles; Norway spruce has a stronger scent but is generally better kept outdoors or brought in close to Christmas. Pine trees can last longer, Walker says, though they lack the traditional Christmas-tree appearance.