How to Set Up a Real Christmas Tree? Helpful Guide + Care Tips

How to set up a real Christmas tree? What are the necessary steps that you must take? 

Decorating a Christmas tree is a beloved family tradition by many. However, before you begin with hanging the sparkly garlands and festive baubles, the tree itself needs to be set up. A lot of people can’t go without the authentic appeal of a real Christmas tree, that’s why every year they look for the perfect one to match their preferences. But how do you set up a real Christmas tree? That’s for you to discover in this article.

How to Set Up a Real Christmas Tree? – A Helpful Step-by-Step Guide

Although you may think that setting up a real Christmas tree might be a handful and can take plenty of your time, Deavita.net’s editorial team is here to prove you wrong! With our helpful advice and tips, you can easily display your authentic tree in your home and marvel at its natural beauty and take in that pleasant odor. So free up some time, maybe choose a weekend day at best, roll up your sleeves and let’s get to working!

Start by Picking Out Your Christmas Tree, if You Haven’t

If you yet haven’t chosen your real Christmas tree of the year, now is the time to do so. Think of the place where you are going to be setting it up. Measure it and note down the dimension. Keep in mind that your tree stand will usually raise the tree itself 6 inches/15 cm above the level of the floor. Don’t go estimating a tree’s size by eye, as this is not an adequate method. Avoid being tempted to go with a bigger or taller tree, as you will have to cut up its branches later so in can fit in your chosen room.

Also read: 6 Creative Ideas for Christmas Tree Alternatives for Cat Owners

Remove the Netting & Know Off Any Loose Tree Needles

With a pair of scissors or a knife, carefully remove the tree’s netting. Avoid tugging if you don’t want to risk damaging the tree, but cut through the knot instead. Once this task is complete, give your real Christmas tree a shake to knock off any loose inner needles. If the loss of needles is extensive, this may signal an unhealthy tree.

Saw an Inch of the Base of the Christmas Tree’s Trunk

Now that you have your Christmas tree, you need to saw 1 inch/2.5 cm from the base of the trunk. Cut straight across, perpendicular to the trunk. Make sure you use a saw with large “teeth”. Don’t use an axe as this can split the trunk and kill your tree. The reason you are cutting the trunk is that when the tree first gets cut, the sap oozes and hardens, which creates a seal preventing the tree from absorbing water.

Lay Out Floor Protection & Clear a Passageway for the Tree

Before you move on to bringing the Christmas tree inside, make sure you lay out protection for your carpets and floors. Spread papers or tarpaulin to protect your home from water spillages and fallen needles. Also, clear a passageway for the tree. As it will be out of the netting, its branches can knock over vases, pictures, candles and any other displayed items you have at your home. Store any possessions away. Your hanging lights might be in danger as well.

Also read: Christmas Tree Ideas 2023 for Every Budget: Colors and Decor Trends That You Must Know

Preparing the Tree Stand & Bringing the Christmas Tree Inside

Make sure you have the Christmas tree stand ready. Loosen the screws to a setting that will easily allow the tree trunk to slot into place. Now bring in the tree indoors! It’s best if two people work this task, as one can fix the base while the other will hold the tree stable. Aim to put the Christmas tree directly into the tree stand, without resting the trunk anywhere in your home. It’s possible that there is sticky sap on the bottom of the trunk, so wouldn’t it be better if it stuck to the tree stand rather than on your carpet?

Also read: How to Care for a Cut Christmas Tree So That It Does Not Lose Its Needles Before the Holidays?

How to Set Up a Real Christmas Tree Stand to Secure the Tree?

Check first if the Christmas tree is sitting straight up. Again, a task for two people: Have one of you tighten the metal screws or wooden notches of the stand, while the other hold the tree in place, making sure that it stays in a straight position. Once it is secured, slowly let go of the tree to see if it can hold on its own.

Real Christmas Tree Maintenance & Care Tips

• Allow the tree to settle before you start to decorate it. The branches might drop slightly as they readjust.
• A real tree absorbs roughly one liter of water for every inch/2.5 cm of trunk diameter per day. Make sure you water the tree regularly.
• Very high temperatures and central heating systems will surely dry out your tree. If you want to enjoy it for longer, place it in a room with low temperature.

Read here for more real Christmas tree care tips and ways for extending its lifespan.