The Christmas season is coming up, and families are looking forward to getting their holiday tree. But once you bring that festive centerpiece home, it is important to take care of it properly so that it keeps its needles and looks its best all season long.

Along with keeping plenty of fresh tap water in the tree stand, another simple but effective way to keep your cut Christmas tree fresh is to use anti-desiccant spray. Also called anti-transpirant spray, this solution often consists of a combination of water, wax, and glycerin, and it helps to prevent the tree from drying out and losing its needles. It works by sealing the pores of the needles and preventing water from evaporating. This can help to keep the tree looking fresh and green.

Anti-desiccant spray is readily available online and at garden center stores. This solution also works to help preserve wreaths, garland, and other fresh greenery used for decoration.

How to Apply Anti-Desiccant Spray with a Spot Sprayer

When using anti-desiccant spray, a spot sprayer or backpack sprayer helps make it easy to apply especially over a large surface area like a Christmas tree. A spot sprayer is a small handheld sprayer that applies the spray directly to the branches and trunk of the tree. A backpack sprayer is a small portable sprayer that includes a pump and shoulder straps that make it comfortable to wear while easily moving around to spray large areas with a wand.

Here's how to use a spot sprayer to apply anti-desiccant solution to your Christmas tree:

1. Position your tree in a well-ventilated area, preferably outside, where it is standing upright, and you can easily reach all parts of it.
2. Fill the backpack sprayer with the anti-desiccant solution. Make sure to use the correct concentration of solution as specified by the manufacturer.
3. Prep the sprayer for use.
4. Aim the sprayer wand at the branches of the tree and spray until the surface is wet.
5. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all the branches and trunk have been wetted with the anti-desiccant solution.
6. Allow the anti-desiccant solution to dry completely before taking the tree inside to decorate.

Safety guidelines:

• Always wear gloves and eye protection when using the spray.
• Avoid spraying the solution on your skin or clothing.
• Do not spray the solution near open flames or heat sources.
• Store the anti-desiccant spray solution in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Picking a Spot Sprayer

When choosing a spot sprayer, consider the size of your tree and the amount of coverage you need. You may also want to consider a sprayer with a comfortable grip and adjustable spray settings.

If you want personal help in choosing a sprayer, or do not see the sprayer you want in stock on our website, call our store at 1-800-346-7867 to talk with one of our parts specialists.

By following some simple steps and the right tools from Chemical Containers, you can transform your Christmas tree into a centerpiece of vibrant needles, captivating fragrance, and festive cheer for the entire season.

Wishing you a Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and the delightful aroma of a freshly preserved Christmas tree!