Nothing says the holidays have arrived quite like bringing home a fresh Christmas tree. From its crisp evergreen scent to the tradition of decorating it with family and friends, a real tree can become the centerpiece of your holiday celebrations.
Many Whole Foods Market stores offer fresh Christmas trees throughout the season. Selection and availability vary by store, so we recommend contacting your nearest location before you shop or stopping by to see what's available.
How to Choose a Fresh Christmas Tree
Finding the right tree starts with your space. Measure your ceiling height before you shop and remember to leave room for a tree topper. Think about where your tree will go too. A full, wide tree makes a beautiful statement in a large room, while a slimmer tree may be a better fit for apartments or cozier spaces.
As you browse, look for vibrant green needles and flexible branches. Gently run your hand along a branch. A fresh tree should hold onto most of its needles, and the branches should bend without snapping. A fresh evergreen scent is another good indicator that you've found a healthy tree.
Once you’ve picked the perfect tree at Whole Foods Market, you’re ready to bring it home and start decorating with ornaments, lights and a garland.
How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Green
With a little care, your fresh Christmas tree can stay beautiful throughout the holiday season. Follow these simple tips to help keep it looking its best.
Give the tree a fresh cut: Remove at least ¼ inch of the trunk before placing it in a stand. If you aren’t bringing the tree inside right away, place it in a large bucket of water outdoors. The tree can drink up to a gallon of water during its first day. While it hydrates, inspect your lights for worn cords or loose connections, protect your floors with a tree skirt or covering and gather your decorations.
Choose a stand to fit your tree: Avoid trimming the outer bark to make the trunk fit your stand, as this can reduce the tree’s ability to absorb water. Instead, choose a stand that’s large enough for the trunk to fit comfortably.
Locate the tree away from heat sources: Place your tree away from fireplaces, heaters, heat vents and direct sunlight. Keeping it in a cooler location will help it stay fresh longer.
There’s no need to add anything to the water: Fresh water is the key to keeping the tree hydrated and retaining its needles.
Check the water daily, especially if you have pets: If your pet enjoys sneaking sips from the tree stand, be sure to keep the water topped off. If the tree accidentally runs out of water, it may dry out and begin shedding its needles. The only way to get it drinking again is to make another fresh cut before placing it back in water.
Happy holidays!
