As the festive season approaches, households across the UK are gearing up to bring the magic of Christmas into their homes and, for many, that means decorating with a real Christmas tree. While some opt for faux trees, one expert said Google searches for the term ‘real Christmas tree’ were up 376% in the past month alone versus a 196% increase for ‘fake Christmas tree’, highlighting the demand for genuine pine trees.

However, once the tree is cut, how do you keep it looking fresh and lively throughout the entire advent period? David Johnson, technical and category manager at The Underfloor Heating Store, has shared his expertise on how to keep your festive centrepiece looking its best.

Ways to avoid shortening your Christmas tree's lifespan

The optimum temperature

David said: “Maintaining your home's temperature is a critical step if you want your tree to last in the lead-up to Christmas Day and beyond. My recommendation is to keep the room temperature between 18C to 22C. Any hotter or colder, your tree will likely dry out faster and start losing its needles.”

Choosing the right room

David said: “Choosing the right location for your Christmas tree can significantly impact its freshness and longevity. To keep your tree looking best throughout the holiday season, place it in a room away from the direct blast of your heating sources."

Try to avoid rooms with radiators or fireplaces emitting high heat levels, as this will accelerate the drying process. Although a popular spot for trees, we tend to spend a lot of time in living rooms, which are often the most heated rooms in the home. The kitchen is also too hot with steam from cooking and heat from ovens. Instead, opt for a cooler spot like entryways, hallways, or dining rooms, if available. If, however, you can't resist the allure of a crackling fire, make sure to keep your tree at a safe distance.”

Rotating your tree every few days

David said: “If your tree is near a window or exposed to direct sunlight, it’s a good idea to rotate it regularly to ensure an even distribution of sunlight and heat exposure. This will prevent one side from getting too much sunlight, meaning it will grow more uniformly and is less likely to dry out on just one side. Enlist the help of your household and give your tree a gentle spin every few days.”

The underfloor heating advantage

For those lucky enough to have underfloor heating, David said: "Underfloor heating offers a distinct advantage when it comes to keeping your tree fresher for longer. Placing your tree in a room with underfloor heating allows you to create a cosy, festive atmosphere without subjecting your tree to too much direct heat. Unlike traditional radiators that may create hotspots, underfloor heating ensures a consistent and uniform temperature, reducing the risk of premature drying.

However, it’s still a good idea to protect the base of your tree by using a mat between the floor and your tree stand. You will still need to adjust the thermostat to maintain a moderate temperature. While underfloor heating is generally tree-friendly, excessively high temperatures can still pose a risk, so striking a balance is essential. Thankfully, most modern underfloor heating systems come equipped with adjustable thermostats, allowing you to fine-tune the temperature to your preference.”

Keeping your tree hydrated, not drenched

David said: "When it comes to watering your Christmas tree, it can be tempting to give it lots of water due to its size, but moderation is key. Instead of drenching the base, maintain a consistent water level just below where the trunk has been cut. A well-hydrated tree will look luscious, but excess water can lead to root rot and compromise its freshness.

When you get home, trim the base of your tree before placing it in the stand. A fresh cut will expose the tree's vascular system, allowing it to absorb water more efficiently. Make the cut at a slight angle to maximise the surface area.”

Managing moisture with an air humidifier

David said: "Maintaining adequate humidity levels in your home can significantly help preserve your tree's freshness. If you already have a humidifier, especially if you have central heating, using it over the festive period is a great way to prevent the air from becoming too dry. A little extra moisture will go a long way in keeping your tree looking its best."