Tips on keeping a real tree looking alive!

[notso]

We didn't used to put the tree up so early but in 2010 DS2 was due on the 23rd Dec so we put it up on the 8th as DH was off work and he arrived on the 9th so it was just as well!
I also have a December birthday and have very fond memories of having the tree and all the decorations up, I really want the same for DS2 but last year the tree looked tired by Christmas day and like a twig by the twelfth night!
I cut it, soak it and water it with lemonade like my Dad used to but it just doesn't work.

We get a Norwegian spruce and water it (with water not lemonade) lots. Don't let the room get too hot and it should be fine for ages.

Not just watering it occasionally, but keeping the end of the trunk always in water (if air gets into the little holes in the bark, the pipework for taking up water doesn't work again - sorry, that's the non-techy explanation of what we learned in Uni!). We have always (even when we were small at home) had a stand that held water that was kept with at least an inch at all times (jobs of little'uns was to crawl under tree on a daily basis to top it up).

Also, YY to keeping temps low-ish around it (try not to have it right NEXT to hot rad, for example, but near cool window in coolest corner of room).

Sometimes, a spray of water (just a fine misting) can help if getting very dry.

You're meant to cut off a couple of inches (I think) from the base of the trunk before you put it up so it will continue to take up water - and yes it must sit in a stand with water and be topped up regularly. I find that the first couple of days it sucks up a lot then slows down. And try to keep it cool.

When you choose your tree, make sure that the needles feel springy and are a good green colour. Look at it unwrapped (before it's netted) and give it a shake. If there is hardly any needle drop it is still relatively fresh. Never buy a tree that has it's trunk in a wooden block, as you have no idea how long it's been cut for. We used to find that our fresh tree (Norwegian spruce) in water lasted about three weeks in the temperature conditions mentioned above.

You could get a potted tree which will last longer.

Thanks for replies

I do use a stand that holds water though it never seems to need topping up.
The tree goes in the bay window which is very cool as the cellar vents are underneath.
I am going to try a different supplier this year I think.