Why putting Christmas trees in soil or sand could ruin your decorations on the big day

As Christmas approaches in a few days' time, many people may be wondering why their real trees don't look as vibrant as the ones on social media.

Unfortunately, it's not good news for those who have simply placed their cherished fir in sand or soil. However, experts are here to advise you on what not to do next year and how to properly care for your Christmas tree.

TikTok user @plants_n_gardens showed them "repotting" their tree, filling a tree base with compost - but this is a red flag if you want a healthy tree, according to William Mitchell, a gardening expert and owner of Sutton Manor Nursery, who emphasised there are 'correct' ways to water and care for your tree.

Indeed, your real tree needs watering, so merely placing it in a stand and hoping for the best won't yield the best results (and prevent decorations from falling off dry branches).

READ MORE: Mum announces date she's putting Christmas tree up – and doesn't care what people say

Every year, between eight to 10 million real Christmas trees are sold across the UK. Regrettably, not all of them maintain their fresh pine scent and green branches until Christmas Day.

William shared some tips on how to keep your tree looking as fresh as possible. He advised: "As soon as you bring your tree home and take it out of the net, you should cut one to two inches off the bottom of the trunk before placing it in a large bucket or tree stand.

"This opens up the tree's pores, allowing it to easily absorb water. If you don't cut the bottom of the trunk, it will remain blocked with sap and will struggle to drink water, no matter how often you feed it.

"Similarly, you should refrain from putting your tree in soil or sand as this will also block the pores, making water