Be Inspired Blog - Arizona

Tips for keeping your fresh holiday greenery looking its best!

The holiday season is upon us and with it comes fresh-cut holiday greenery, such as Christmas trees, wreaths, roping and more.

Keep it Fresh

Since the holiday season spans several weeks, it's important to get the most out of your fresh-cut holiday greenery. Below are some simple tips to do just that!

1. Chose the Best Greenery

• Look for Freshness: Select greenery that is bright green, slightly flexible (bends without breaking), and doesn’t shed many needles when handled. Tip: Give the greenery a gentle shake. Minimal needle drop is a good indicator of freshness.
• Christmas Trees: For pre-cut trees, ensure the trunk has a fresh cut to improve water absorption. Did you know? At SummerWinds Nursery, our fresh-cut Christmas trees are always kept in water to ensure they stay well-nourished!

2. Preparation Before Use

• Christmas Trees: Trim 1–2 inches off the base of your tree trunk before placing it in water to maximize hydration. At SummerWinds Nursery, we provide a fresh trim for your tree, so it’s stand-ready upon purchase!
• Cooler Is Better: Evergreens last longer in cooler environments, so keep them outdoors (e.g., on your front door) until you’re ready to bring them inside.
• Soak Greenery: Before displaying garlands and wreaths indoors, soak them in a tub or large container overnight to allow them to absorb as much water as possible.

3. Keep them Fresh While on Display

• Daily Watering: Add water to your Christmas tree stand daily—trees can absorb up to a gallon of water each day.
• Combat Dry Air: Use a room humidifier near indoor greenery to counteract the drying effects of heating systems.
• Avoid Sun & Heat: Keep fresh greenery away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent drying out.
• Holly Tips: Holly leaves can discolor in extreme temperatures; they prefer a range of 32°F to 60°F.
• Regular Check-Ins: Examine greenery every couple of days, removing sections that are brown or shedding needles.
• Mist Regularly: Gently mist greenery with water every few days to maintain freshness.
• Vases: If using greenery in a vase, change the water every two days. Preservatives are not necessary.
• Wilt Stop: Consider spraying fresh-cut greenery with Wilt Stop to extend its life. See below for more details.

4. Safety Tips

• LED Lights Only: Use LED lights to decorate your greenery—they are cooler and safer than traditional lights. Avoid using candles around greenery.
• Fire Safety: Ensure greenery is securely placed and kept away from open flames, such as those from working fireplaces or candles.
• Avoid Heat Sources: Heat sources can dry out greenery quickly and pose a fire risk.
• Berry Warning: If you have children or pets, steer clear of greenery with poisonous berries.

5. Eco-Friendly Disposal

• Recycle or Compost: After the holiday season, recycle or compost your greenery instead of sending it to the landfill. Tip: Many cities offer Christmas tree and wreath recycling programs—check your local government’s website for details.

Wilt Stop

Bonide's Wilt Stop protects plants from drying out, drought, wind burn, sunscald, winter kill, transplant shock and salt damage. Wilt Stop also extends the life of cut flowers, Christmas trees and and holiday greenery. Great for use year round on deciduous trees, evergreens, shrubs, roses, transplants, vegetables and fruits. Made with natural ingredients. 

Questions?

Have more questions about holiday greenery or plants in general? Stop by your local SummerWinds Nursery and speak with one of our Trusted Garden Advisors.