There’s nothing quite like the smell and beauty of a real Christmas tree filling your home during the festive season. Whether it’s your first time setting one up or you’re a seasoned pro, a few simple steps can make all the difference between a tree that dries out quickly and one that stays fresh and full of life all December long.
At Trees2You in Glynn, Wexford, we supply premium Nordmann Fir Christmas trees — known for their soft needles, lush green colour, and long-lasting freshness. Here’s your complete guide to setting up your real Christmas tree safely, beautifully, and with minimal fuss.
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Spot
Before you even unwrap your tree, decide where it will go. Pick a location away from direct heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or sunny windows — these can cause the tree to dry out faster. Ideally, choose a cool corner where the tree is visible but not in the way of foot traffic or curious pets.
Pro Tip
Place your tree near a plug socket if you plan to add lights. It’ll save you the hassle of extension cords trailing across the room.
Step 2: Prepare Your Stand
A good-quality stand is key to keeping your tree upright and hydrated. Make sure your stand can hold enough water and fits the base of your tree snugly. If you don’t have one, Trees2You offers sturdy, easy-to-use stands that provide excellent stability and water capacity for Nordmann Firs.
Step 3: Trim the Base of the Trunk
When you’re ready to set up, cut 2–3 cm off the bottom of the trunk. This exposes fresh wood and allows the tree to absorb water more efficiently. Think of it like cutting the stems of flowers before placing them in a vase — it helps the tree stay fresh and vibrant for weeks.
Step 4: Secure the Tree and Check Stability
Place your tree in the stand and tighten it so it’s standing straight and secure. Step back and view it from a few angles to make sure it’s centred. Once it’s perfectly upright, you can start filling the stand with water
Pro Tip
If you have young children or pets, choose a wide, heavy stand and consider tying the tree discreetly to a wall hook or ceiling fixture for extra stability.
Step 5: Let the Tree Settle
After bringing your tree indoors, give it a few hours (or overnight) to settle before decorating. The branches will relax and open naturally as they adjust to room temperature, making it easier to hang ornaments evenly.
Step 6: Add Lights First
Start decorating with your lights — it’s much easier to do this before adding baubles and tinsel. Begin from the bottom and work your way up, wrapping the lights evenly around the tree. Aim for 100 lights per foot of tree height for the best glow.
Step 7: Decorate with Ornaments
Once your lights are in place, it’s time for the fun part. Hang your favourite decorations, placing heavier ornaments on sturdy inner branches and lighter ones near the ends. For families with young children, consider shatterproof decorations on lower branches to keep things safe.
Step 8: Keep It Hydrated
A real tree can drink up to a litre of water a day, especially in a warm room. Check the water level daily — if the base dries out, sap can seal the trunk and stop the tree from absorbing water again.
Pro Tip
Top up the stand every morning when you make your first cup of coffee or tea — make it part of your routine so your tree stays fresh and fragrant right through Christmas.
Step 9: Enjoy the Festive Season
Once your tree is beautifully decorated and hydrated, sit back and enjoy the warm glow it brings to your home. The scent of a real Nordmann Fir is unmatched — it’s the perfect finishing touch to your family’s Christmas celebrations.
Bonus Tip
Save time and make Christmas easier this year by ordering your real Nordmann Fir Christmas tree from Trees2You
. We offer premium, freshly cut trees grown right here in Wexford, available for home delivery or collection.
Let us bring the spirit of Christmas straight to your door — safely, simply, and beautifully.
Ready for Your Perfect Tree?
Contact Trees2You today to order your premium Nordmann Fir Christmas tree.