F CHRISTMAS TREES

Cut-and-shaped Christmas trees are favourites among many families, but they need a little care to make sure they still look good on Christmas Day. Here are some survival tips:

Buy the tree on a cool day, put it in a bucket of water, and store it in a cool garage or shed until you are ready to set it up inside

If you have the equipment and the inclination, enhance water uptake by re-cutting the base of the tree before you bring it indoors

Consider spraying the foliage with an anti-transpirant product to help reduce moisture loss and needle drop Set up the tree in a container filled with clean water. Place it out of the sun and away from any heat sources, such as the television Check and top up the water level regularly