How to Water a Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are easy to water with the proper tools. Gather the following items to begin:

• Christmas tree waterer – There are a few types of waterers. Some have sensors and alarms that let you know when the tree is getting dry, and others use tubing to continuously supply your tree with water. Review your options and choose one that fits your needs.
• Live Christmas tree stand – Many stands are designed hold extra water as a reservoir for thirsty trees. Choose one sturdy enough to support whichever size tree you’ve chosen.
• Spray bottle – It’s important to make sure the trunk receives ample water, but you also need a spray bottle to make sure the branches and needles get consistent moisture.

Tip: Check out our buying guide for help understand the different types of real Christmas trees available

• Water daily. A
  6-foot Christmas tree requires at least one gallon of water each day to stay fresh. Add more for taller trees and less for smaller ones.
• Try a tree watering system. These make it easy to water your tree without having to move presents out of the way.
• Choose the right stand. The size of your stand should be proportionate to the size of your tree. Choose one that will provide at least one quart of water per inch of stem diameter.
• Monitor water levels. Some trees may drink more water than expected. Do not let the water level in the stand fall below the base of your Christmas tree.
• Spray the needles. Indoor heating and drier climate conditions can dry out the needles on your Christmas tree. Use a spray bottle to mist the branches and needles once a day. This will help prevent them from becoming brittle and breaking off too soon.

Here are a few tips on how to care for a Christmas tree:

• Ask a Home Depot associate to cut off the bottom inch of the tree trunk to ensure that it will properly absorb water.
• Don’t place your tree too close to heating vents or other heat sources. If possible, keep it in a cool, dry area.
• Use light that emits little to no heat to prevent the tree from prematurely drying out.
• Always turn off the lights on your tree before going to bed.
• Check with your area’s waste and recycling management department for instructions on how to properly recycle your Christmas tree once the season is over.