Sugar added to Christmas tree water is claimed to keep them fresh longer. Is this true?
Does Sugar Water Work for Christmas Trees?
No. The best thing you can do to keep a real tree fresh is to use plain old tap water with no added sugar.
The experts agree.
The National Christmas Tree Association says: “Research has shown that plain tap water is best”.
Bert Cregg, a Christmas tree expert at Michigan State University Extension, says, “Do not add sugar, aspirin, bleach or floral preservatives. Research has shown plain tap water is all that is needed to keep your tree fresh”.
For more information on how to make your tree last a long time have a look at Tricks to Make Your Christmas Tree Last Longer.
How Do You Revive A Dying Christmas Tree?
If your cut Christmas tree starts getting dry there is little you can do. Keep it watered with fresh water and don’t add anything to the water. None of the claimed products work.
Is Sugar Water Good for Houseplants?
It can help plants grow if it is used correctly. Find out how in Is Sugar Water Good For Plants.
Spent mushroom compost extract contains fulvic and humic acid along with alcohol sugars. The fulvic acid will penetrate the cambian bark layer and feed the tree both nutrients and water. It will keep the tree green for up to 4 weeks unless the tree has been cut for too long before the liquid is added.
Any references for such a claim? You can see from the references I included that they do not support your claim.