Crucial mistakes that will leave your Christmas tree ‘doomed to wither’

BELIEVE it or not, December starts tomorrow and as we prepare to open the first door of our Advent calendar, many of us will be looking forward to putting up our Christmas trees.

While some opt for fake trees, nothing beats the magic of bringing a real fir into your home.

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But are you unknowingly shortening the lifespan of your tree?

David Johnson, technical and category manager at The underfloor heating store shares his expert tips to keep your festive centerpiece looking its best.

The optimal room temperature

“Maintaining the right temperature is crucial if you want your tree to last long leading up to and after Christmas Day,” says David Johnson.

“I recommend keeping your home between 18 and 22°C. No matter how hotter or colder it gets, your tree will likely dry out faster and lose its needles.”

Choosing the right room

According to David: “Choosing the right location for your Christmas tree can have a significant impact on its freshness and longevity.

“To keep your tree looking its best, place it in a room away from the direct blast of your heating sources.”

“Try to avoid rooms with radiators or fireplaces that give off a lot of heat, as this will speed up the drying process. Although it is a popular place for trees, we spend a lot of time in living rooms, which are often the most heated in the house.

“The kitchen is also too hot due to the steam from cooking and the heat from ovens.

“Instead, choose a cooler spot such as entryways, hallways or dining rooms, if available. However, if you can’t resist the allure of a crackling fire, make sure your tree is a safe distance away.”

Rotate your tree every few days

“If your tree is near a window or exposed to direct sunlight, it is a good idea to rotate it regularly to ensure even distribution of sunlight and heat exposure.

“This prevents one side from receiving too much sunlight, so that the plant grows more evenly and dries out less quickly on one side.

“Enlist the help of your household and give your tree a gentle twist every few days.”

The advantage of underfloor heating

For those lucky enough to have underfloor heating, David says: “Underfloor heating offers a clear advantage when it comes to keeping your tree fresher for longer.

“With underfloor heating you create a cozy, festive atmosphere without exposing your tree to too much direct heat.

“Unlike traditional radiators which can cause hot spots, underfloor heating provides a consistent and uniform temperature, reducing the risk of premature dehydration.

However, it is still a good idea to protect the base of your tree by placing a mat between the floor and your tree stand.

“You will still need to adjust the thermostat to maintain a moderate temperature.

“While underfloor heating is generally tree-friendly, excessive temperatures can still pose a risk, so striking a balance is critical.

“Fortunately, most modern underfloor heating systems are equipped with adjustable thermostats, so you can adjust the temperature to your own preference.”

Keep your tree hydrated, not soaked

David recommends: “When it comes to watering your Christmas tree, it can be tempting to give it a lot of water due to its size, but moderation is key. Rather than watering the base, a consistent water level should be just below trunk is present. cutting is best.

“A well-hydrated tree looks lush, but excess water can lead to root rot and affect its freshness.

“When you get home, cut the base of your tree before putting it in the stand.

“A fresh cut will expose the tree’s vascular system, allowing it to absorb water more efficiently. Make the cut at a slight angle to maximize surface area.”

Manage moisture

“Proper humidity can significantly prolong the freshness of your tree.

“If you already have a humidifier, especially if you have central heating, using it during the holidays is a good way to keep the air from becoming too dry.

“A little extra moisture will go a long way in keeping your tree looking its best.”