How to Preserve the Smell of Christmas Tree

Before You Purchase the Tree:

- Choose a tree that is fresh. Check the flexibility of the needles by running your hand over them. If the needles don’t break, the tree is fresh.

- Don't buy a tree with a trunk that shows any signs of mold, mildew or rot.

Preparing Your Tree:

- Cut off the bottom one to two inches of the tree trunk diagonally using a sharp saw. This will allow the tree to absorb water better.

- Place the tree in a bucket or large container filled with fresh water as soon as possible after you bring it home. This will slow the drying out of the tree.

- Find a cool spot indoors for the tree, away from direct heat sources like fireplaces and radiators.

- Place the tree in a tree stand filled with water. You may add 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of corn syrup or 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of sugar per gallon (3.8 l) of water. This can prolong the life of the tree.

- Keep the reservoir filled with water at all times. Check it daily.

Taking Care of Your Christmas Tree:

- To prolong the fragrance, mist the tree 1-2 times a day.

- Turn off the Christmas tree lights when not in use. This will help reduce the likelihood of your tree drying out too quickly.

- Avoid hanging heavy ornaments too near the tree branches, to prevent it from drying out too soon.

- Vacuum or sweep up any dried needles that drop. This will help prevent mold and mildew growth.

- Keep your tree away from hot lights, fireplaces, or other sources of heat.

Caring for Your Tree After Christmas:

- When the holiday season is over, you can either choose to recycle your tree or keep it for another year. If you choose to keep it, let the tree dry completely and store it in a cool and dry place.

Additional Tips:

- Don't burn the tree trimmings in the fireplace. Burning evergreen needles produces a very high level of creosote soot. This can accumulate in your chimney and increase your risk of chimney fire.

- Use scented candles or room sprays with scents like pine, fir or cedar to enhance the smell of the Christmas tree.

- Add essential oils like pine, spruce, or fir to your diffuser or humidifier to spread the refreshing scent throughout your home.