A FRESH-CUT tree is a holiday tradition that links Christmases past with the present for many families.
Here are some tips for keeping a fresh cut tree in good condition: When you buy it, the outer foliage of fresh-cut trees should be green.
At home, cut off a quarter inch of the base before taking the tree indoors. That opens the trunk to water.
Check the water every day. Use plain water; no studies show an advantage to adding sugar or other additives.
Large trees can absorb as much as several quarts of water a day. Never let the tree dry out. If it does, a seal will form over the trunk and the only recourse is to take it down and make a new cut.
Keep Christmas trees as well as evergreen decorations away from heat, sunlight and candles.