Nothing brings more holiday cheer than a fresh Christmas tree, but keeping it healthy throughout the month can be tricky. One of the most important things you can do for your tree is ensuring it gets enough water. But should you add anything special to the water to make it last longer? The answer might surprise you. Let’s break down what you should—and shouldn’t—put in your Christmas tree water to keep it looking merry and bright all season long.
What to Put in Christmas Tree Water
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to add anything fancy to your Christmas tree water. In fact, the best thing to use is simply plain old tap water. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, commercial tree additives and home remedies can actually harm the tree, reducing its ability to retain moisture and increasing needle loss.
Expert Tip: The simplest solution is always the best. Stick with fresh tap water, and make sure to keep the tree well-hydrated throughout the holiday season.
What Not to Put in Christmas Tree Water
There are many suggestions out there for ingredients you can add to your Christmas tree water, but most of them do more harm than good. Here are the most common ones to avoid:
- Epsom Salts: While magnesium is great for some plants, your Christmas tree doesn’t need it. It’s believed that Epsom salts can help keep needles green, but your tree can produce the nutrients it needs on its own without any added salt.
- Sugar: People often add sugar to the tree water, thinking it will feed the tree and extend its life. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this. The sugar won’t benefit your tree in any meaningful way, so it’s best to leave it out.
- Aspirin: Some believe aspirin can make a Christmas tree live longer and reduce mold, but there are no studies to back these claims. Aspirin can’t help your tree, so it’s better to keep it out of the water.
- Bleach: While bleach may seem like a good way to prevent mold and bacteria, it can actually harm your tree. Even a small amount can damage the tree’s tissues, so it’s best to avoid this altogether.
- Soft Drinks (like Sprite): It’s a common myth that adding soda to tree water will nourish the tree. While soda might seem like a sugary treat, it has no positive effect on your Christmas tree and could even be harmful. Stick with water instead.
How Often You Should Refresh Christmas Tree Water
The key to keeping your tree fresh is regular hydration. Water your tree every day, especially during the first week after bringing it inside. It’s essential to make sure the tree’s stand can hold enough water. A good rule of thumb is that the stand should be able to hold at least 1 quart of water per inch of trunk diameter.
Expert Tip: Trees can drink a surprising amount of water, particularly in the first few days. Make sure to keep the stand filled to ensure your tree stays hydrated. Consider using a water monitor or setting reminders to help you remember.
Conclusion
When it comes to Christmas tree care, keeping it hydrated with plain tap water is the best—and simplest—approach. Avoid adding any unnecessary ingredients like sugar, aspirin, or bleach, as these can do more harm than good. By ensuring your tree gets plenty of water and staying consistent with its care, you’ll be able to enjoy a fresh, vibrant Christmas tree throughout the holiday season.
