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Keep Your Tree Fresh and Green

Cut the stump of the tree with a fresh cut and set it in water immediately. A fresh-cut tree will absorb several quarts of water right from the start. So it's important to check and refill the water level several times a day for the first week. You can cut down on frequency later. Be sure to place you Christmas tree in a stand that has a large water reservoir and keep it filled.

Putting Lights and Decorations on the Tree

When decorating your Christmas tree, put lights on first, then garlands, then the ornaments.

Work From the Inside Out

Start arranging Christmas tree lights on the branches near the base of the tree. Weave strings of lights along the branches "inside," then move to the outer edges of the branches.

Placement of Ornaments

Don't hang all your ornament on the tips of the branches. Place ornaments and other decorations 'inside' your tree to add depth and interest.

Basic Ornaments for Fill

Start by arranging the "filler ornaments" evenly spaced around the tree. This would include basic solid color balls that are easily found at discount stores in a wide range of colors to coordinate and enhance your decorating scheme. You'll need about 20 "filler ornaments" for every 2 feet of Christmas tree.

Special Themed, Collectible Ornaments

Mix one-of-a-kind special ornaments between the basic ornaments. Plan to use at least 10 special themed ornaments for every 2 feet of tree. As your collection grows, put the special ornaments closer together.

Too Much is a Good Thing

You can never really have too many decorations on the tree. If they're evenly spaced and carefully selected, the more the better.

Add Natural Materials

Use colorful ribbons to tie together clusters of dried flowers or small twigs. Place them between branches where some fill is needed. Use wire to attach the custers to the branches.

Use Silk Flowers for Color

Trim blossoms off stems of silk flowers and lay them on the branches of your Christmas tree for a formal look. Choose blossoms in shades of the colors of your theme or choose all white for a showy effect. Place the flowers evenly around the tree on the inside and outside of branches.

Add Sparkle With Metallic Spray

Preserved leaves, pinecones, and seed pods can be embellished with metallic spray paint or a sprinkling of glitter. Add just a touch for a subtle look or cover completely for a more formal effect.

Old-Fashioned Candles

A Christmas tree looks quaint and old-fashioned with clip-on candles attached to the tips of branches. You should not ever light the candles, as they'd present a serious fire hazard. Choose candles in gold, white, or red.

Miniature Wreaths and Baskets

Craft stores have all sorts of wreaths, seed pods, and baskets. Add colorful ribbons, greenery, or berries with a glue gun. Attach a bow or loop for hanging.