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Cut, live trees are the most common type of Christmas tree and great care needs to be taken to preserve their freshness. A fresh cut tree can stay healthy for several weeks if it is well cared for ... So, follow these hints and precautions and you'll preserve the unique beauty and tradition that only a real Christmas tree can provide. 

• When you receive your tree, remove it from the box as soon as you can, but leave it in it's wrapper - this will aid you later in setting the tree in the tree stand. 
• Before you set up your tree, make a fresh, straight cut across the base of the trunk about an inch up from the butt end to aid in water absorption and then place the cut end into a container of plain tap water water quickly. 
• If the tree is not to be put up right away, still cut an inch or so off the end, place the tree in a bucket of water and store it in a protected, shady, and unheated or coolest area. Then when the tree is ready to be set up, saw another slice off the butt end to insure water absorption. 
• Try to use a sturdy stand (see our line of Christmas tree stands) with a large water reservoir so the tree won't dry out. The reservoir should hold at least 1/2 gallon of water - a 1 gallon or more capacity is even better. 
• When you are ready to set up your tree, hold it in the middle with the wrapper still on, and place it in the tree stand. Adjust the tree stand screws or wires so that the tree is square and secure in the stand. When this is done, start at the top of the tree and with a pair of scissors, cut the wrapper from top to bottom. Allow the tree branches to unfold naturally, do not force them. Let the tree unfold at its own pace for 2 to 3 hours, then you can help the branches open by gently grasping the branch at a point toward the center of the branch and gently apply downward pressure until the branch is open. Repeat this procedure in a circular fashion around the tree from top to bottom. The tree will be completely unfolded within 24 hours. 
• A fresh Christmas tree will absorb as much as a gallon of water or more in the first 24 hours after the new cut is made, and one or more quarts a day thereafter depending upon the temperature in the room and the number of lights and ornaments on the tree. Water is important because it prevents the needles from drying and dropping off, the boughs from drooping and it keeps the tree fragrant. 
• Check the water level in the reservoir and add water daily. A tree is beginning to dry out if its water use slows or stops. A seal of dried sap will form over the butt end of the tree in four to six hours if the water drops below the base of the tree, preventing the tree from absorbing water later when the tree stand is refilled. When this happens, another fresh cut should be made, however, this is usually impractical once the tree is decorated. So, keep the tree watered. 
• Keep the tree away from heat and draft sources such as fireplaces, TV's, radiators, and air ducts. And, of course, never have open flames on or near a Christmas tree. 
• Before hanging lights, test your light cords and connections and inspect the string of lights for cracked areas and broken or empty sockets and repair or replace as needed. Also, be sure to unplug the lights before you go to bed or leave the house and never overload electrical circuits. 
   

Courtesy: Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.