How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh in Louisiana

LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) - There’s nothing quite like the sight and smell of a real Christmas tree to make the holiday season feel magical. But in Louisiana, where the weather can be humid one day and chilly the next, keeping a live tree fresh throughout December requires some special care.

Whether you’re in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, or Shreveport, these tips will help you maintain a vibrant and fragrant tree for the entire holiday season.

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Choosing the Right Tree in Louisiana

Start by selecting a healthy tree from a local farm. In Louisiana, popular varieties like Fraser firs, Leyland cypress, and Virginia pine are readily available. These species are well-suited to the local climate and offer excellent needle retention.

Tips for Picking the Perfect Tree

Look for vibrant green needles that are pliable and don’t fall off when you gently tug them.
Ensure the trunk is sticky with fresh sap, indicating the tree was recently cut.
Choose a tree with a strong fragrance and sturdy branches to hold your decorations.

Buying local supports Louisiana farmers and ensures your tree hasn’t endured long transit times that could compromise its freshness.

Prepping Your Christmas Tree

Once you’ve chosen your tree, proper preparation is key to extending its life.

Make a Fresh Cut

Before placing the tree in its stand, trim about half an inch off the trunk to reopen water pathways that sap may have sealed during transport. Use a straight cut to ensure optimal water absorption.

Select the Right Stand

Opt for a sturdy tree stand that can hold at least one quart of water per inch of the tree trunk’s diameter. For a typical tree, this means a stand with a capacity of at least one gallon.

Watering Your Tree

Water is the most critical factor in keeping your tree fresh throughout the season.

Daily Water Check: Refill the stand daily, ensuring the trunk remains submerged.
No Additives Needed: Despite popular myths, additives like sugar or aspirin aren’t necessary and may harm your tree. Stick to plain water.

Placement in Your Louisiana Home

Where you place your tree can significantly impact its longevity, especially in Louisiana’s warmer weather.

Keep It Cool

Position your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, sunny windows, and heating vents to prevent it from drying out. Lowering the room temperature can also help prolong its freshness.

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Opt for LED Lights

Traditional incandescent lights generate heat, which can dry out your tree. LED lights are cooler, safer, and more energy-efficient—a win for both your tree and your electricity bill.

Safety Tips for Your Tree

Real trees are flammable, so fire safety is essential.

Always turn off Christmas lights when leaving the house or going to bed.
Inspect light cords for damage to minimize risks.

Recycling Your Tree After the Holidays

When the season ends, consider recycling your tree. Many Louisiana communities offer tree recycling programs that turn old trees into mulch for public spaces. You can also use the boughs to protect plants in your garden or as habitat for birds.

Making Memories That Last

With the right care, your real Christmas tree can stay fresh and vibrant for up to six weeks. Following these tips ensures your family enjoys a beautiful, fragrant centerpiece for all your holiday celebrations.