Christmas Tree Care - Continued
How to care for a cut tree
When you get your tree and you're not decorating it straight away, leave it outside or somewhere cool. As long as it is left outside until required you may not need to place it in water. However, before placing it in the water or the water-retaining stand cut about 2cm off the stump so the tree can take up water. Scoring the butt end so new wood is visible will also have the desired effect. Place your tree in its spot, away from direct heat and radiators and top up with water. The tree can drink up to 2 litres a day so check the level daily. Our Quickstand is ideal for holding the tree securely and watering. Never use sand as this dries the tree.
After about 2 weeks the tree will begin to shut down and will not drink anymore. Treat the tree as you would a bunch of flowers.
We have found that the needle retention sprays that are available now offer limited or very little protection. It is more cost effective to purchase a needle holding tree.
Pot Grown Trees
Pot grown trees are just that, trees that have been grown in pots. These will have a higher chance of survival after Christmas. The only drawback of pot grown trees is that when they get 5ft and above the roots can burst from the growing pot. The main root is still there but there may be some roots visible.
How to care for a pot-grown tree
Pot grown trees need to be watered regularly and at no point should they be left to dry out as this will harm the tree. It may be beneficial to re-pot the tree when you get it especially if you want to keep it in a container for the next growing season. We would recommend that any trees over 5ft be re-potted or planted out straightaway. This is due to the tree being unstable as the pot may be too small for a large tree. See our plastic tree pots.
If you want to re-plant after Christmas acclimatise it first by leaving it in a sheltered spot and keeping it well watered. Do not plant in an exposed position. A good growing medium will be helpful whether it is to go in a pot or the ground.
Blocked Trees
These are cut trees that have been placed in a wooden block.
How to care for a blocked tree
If you do not want to water your tree this is an ideal way to display your tree. However, for extra stability you could put the tree and block in to a larger plastic pot and weighted with bricks. The tree will also be able to be watered then too.
Please do not hesitate to call us if your are unsure how to care for your tree.
