The DOs and DON’Ts of Cutting Down Your Christmas Tree!
From a Tree Care Professional Who Loves Trees…
December.
A magical time filled with twinkle lights, cozy drinks, and the annual family tradition of wandering into the woods like confused lumberjacks to find the perfect Christmas tree.
Before you head out swinging an axe like you’re starring in a festive action movie, your favourite tree care professionals are here to offer some friendly guidance. Because while we love a good holiday adventure, we also love trees — and there are some rules to keep this tradition safe, legal, and not the kind of story that ends with:
“…so anyway, that’s how I accidentally cut down my neighbour’s landscaping spruce.”
Let’s talk DOs and DON’Ts for getting a live Christmas tree this season.
DON’T: Cut Down the First Tree You See
We know—after 12 minutes of walking in the cold, everything looks perfect. But resist the urge to chop down a lopsided bush that looks good only because your face is frozen.
Take your time! Look for:
Full, even branches
A straight trunk
No bald patches (unless you want a tree with “personality”)
Needles that aren’t already falling off like it’s shedding for spring
Think of it like dating: don’t commit too early, and definitely don’t settle.
DO: Measure Before You Cut
Your ceiling is not 10 feet tall.
Your living room is not a cathedral.
And your partner will not be impressed when you have to cut off another 2 feet in the kitchen with a handsaw while saying, “It looked smaller in the forest.”
Bring a measuring tape and know your space before taking down a future family room giant.
DON’T: Cut the Tree Too High or Too Low
Cutting too high can kill the remaining stump.
Cutting too low makes the tree harder to mount, and also risks you taking the world’s coldest faceplant in the snow.
Rule of thumb: Cut as close to the base as comfortably possible — and in a clean, even slice. No hacking like you’re fighting for your life in a survival movie.
DO: Shake Off the Snow and Wildlife
Before loading it up:
Give the tree a good shake.
Encourage sleeping critters to relocate (politely).
Ensure there’s no surprise squirrel situation waiting to recreate a scene from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
It also gets rid of loose needles and snow, which makes your trek back far less messy.
DON’T: Drag It Through the Snow Like It Owes You Money
Dragging the tree upside down or scraping the branches can damage the needles and shape.
Tip from the pros: Lift or slide it gently, or tie the top forward on your sled/truck so branches don’t get roughed up. Your living room will thank you.
DO: Make a Fresh Cut Before Bringing It Inside
Once you get home, slice a fresh inch off the base.
It’s like giving your tree a coffee after a long day — it perks up, drinks better, and lives longer.
Put it in water as soon as possible and keep it hydrated. A thirsty Christmas tree becomes a very crispy Christmas tree. (Too crispy.)
DON’T: Put It Close to a Heat Source
Fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, your aggressively spirited holiday baking session—all of these dry out your tree faster than you can say “where’s the fire extinguisher?!”
Keep it away from direct heat so it stays fresh and less… flammable.
Cutting down a Christmas tree is an amazing tradition—one that brings families together, supports healthy forest management, and gives your home all the holiday vibes.
Just follow these DOs and DON’Ts, stay safe, and remember: if the tree you pick requires three ratchet straps and a second vehicle to transport… maybe reevaluate.
If you ever have questions about tree health, winter care, or why your spruce looks like it’s giving up on life, the Canopy Keeper Tree Care team is always here to help.
Happy tree hunting and happy holidays!