How To Set Up A Christmas Tree 13 Steps With Pictures

Fraser, Douglas, and Balsam Firs are all good choices. They have shorter needles, so look to the ground to see how many have fallen. The needles should snap crisply if the tree is still fresh. Scotch and Virginia Pine are also ideal Christmas trees. The needles are longer, so the dead ones often get stuck in the branches. Run your hand loosely down a branch – how many needles fall? A Spruce (blue or Colorado) is a beautiful tree, but the needles are so pointy they aren’t good for homes with small children. A Cypress is a beautiful addition to any Christmas, but the branches aren’t very sturdy and won’t keep large ornaments up. [1] X Research source Consider this tree if you’re only working with lights and ribbon. [2] X Research source

It’s best to buy them early. They’re freshest and you get the pick of the lot. Also, a lot of places pre-cut their trees and then leave them to fend for themselves. The tree you pick is probably better off under your care for a week or two than it is at the farm. [1] X Research source For your stand, the tree farm can help you with this if you don’t already have one. You want one that is adjustable to pretty much any size and isn’t a small circle that will only accommodate certain trees. And it should hold at least a gallon of water. Christmas tree watering systems really expand the water capacity or your stand, have a visual indication when your stand needs water and are easy to fill with water. NO crawling under the tree. NO spilling water on the floor.

If you leave your tree out on the porch and it gets sunlight, it may start drying out (the last thing you want to happen). You want as humid, yet cool, as possible, too. [5] X Research source If you do store your tree (any more than 8 hours, actually), you’ll need to cut 1⁄2 inch (1. 3 cm) off the base prior to set up. This revitalizes it and allows it to take in more water, just like you would flowers in a vase.

Those are the two main things to consider. However, you may also want to consider how pets and children might get at it, how it might fall over (or what it might fall onto), and if it proves an obstacle. But heat access should come first! Did we mention not putting it too close to the fireplace? Definitely not the most wonderful time of year when your house burns down because of poorly thought-out Christmas spirit.

Always make sure there’s water touching the base of the tree. If there’s not, a layer of sap will form. If that happens, you’ll need to make another cut, as the tree can’t drink through it.

First, mentally divide your tree into tall sections – the same number as the amount of lights you have. Ideally you’ll have at least 5 strings of lights. Another tip? LEDs are better for the environment and will keep your fuses from blowing. [6] X Research source With your first strand, string it up the top, wrap it along the topmost branch and work your way down, going up each branch and back down it. This minimizes exposed cords. Repeat for each strand of lights. When you’re done, step back and squint. Do you see any dark holes? If so, adjust as necessary. [7] X Research source

If you want to add heavy ornaments, you can hang them on the lower branches for extra support, or higher on the tree by putting them close to the trunk.

Don’t worry about those fancy additives people try to sell you. Plain ol’ water is all your tree needs. Just make sure there’s enough of it. And if Fluffy likes to drink out of the base, be extra diligent!