How to Keep a Potted Christmas Tree Alive
- 1). Spray the Christmas tree needles with an antitranspirant spray to keep the moisture in the needles.
- 2). Slice 1/2 inch off the bottom of the tree trunk with a saw before you place it in a pot. This allows the tree to absorb water so it stays fresh. If you purchase a tree already in a pot, soak the root ball in 1 to 2 inches of warm water for approximately one hour.
- 3). Keep the tree outdoors in a shaded location away from the direct sunlight and wind until you are ready to bring it indoors. You can also store it in the garage if the weather becomes too cold so the root ball does not freeze.
- 4). Store the Christmas tree in your home for no longer than seven days. The tree must remain in dormancy, and the warm temperatures will affect the health of the plant.
- 5). Water the soil to keep it damp. If you do not have soil in the pot, keep the tree stand full to the level of the tree base. Inspect the water level or soil dampness daily.
- 6). Find a location in your home away from direct heat and air ducts. The heat causes the tree to lose its moisture quickly.
- 7). String lights on the Christmas tree that release little heat. Turn the lights off when you do not use them to help keep the tree dormant.
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