To get the longest life, it’s important to store your life-like Christmas tree properly. Here are proper instructions:

1. Replace Broken & Burned-Out Lights

Look for broken or burned-out lights while removing decorations and replace them immediately. The more light bulbs burned out on a string, the more electricity the working light bulbs consume, which will cause the life of the remaining lit bulbs to be shortened dramatically.  This should also be done when you are putting your tree up at the beginning of each season.

2. Disassemble The Tree

Remove the top section of the tree and unplug the power cord from the section below.  Turn the top upside down and gently fold the branches toward the center pole. The rest of the tree can be in up to four sections depending on the height of the tree.  For a 7.5’ tree the most common amount would be two sections.  Using the straps that are included in our deluxe tree bags, fold up half the rows on the sections and wrap the strap around the branches, Pull on the strap gently, until the strap holds the branches in place. Continue to fold up the rest of the branches on each section using up to two straps per section holding the branches in place. For the bottom section, loosen the bolts before removing it from the tree stand. Keep small pieces, such as replaceable light bulbs, in a small re-sealable bag in your storage bag.

3. Place in a Storage Bag

The best place to store your tree is in a storage bag. It has been shaped and altered from its original boxed form, so jostling it back into the box may cause damage to the branches and lights. You can find three different styles of storage bags at all of our store locations.

– For easy transportation of heavy-to-lift trees, choose the red canvas bag with side straps and wheels.

– With handle straps for carrying on both ends of the bag, another recommended storage bag is made from a green canvas with 4 tree branch straps and a heavy duty zipper that seals out dust.

– We also have a plastic bag that has two carrying handle straps.

4. Where to Store the Bag

Store it in a cool place where temperatures are not extreme. The temperature should be between 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity, as possible.  Home attics or garages where summer temperatures can be much higher than 80 degrees are not recommended as the plastic needles could possibly be deformed.

The basement is the best option for storing. Place the bag off the ground on a shelf to avoid possible water damage.

Life-like trees sold at English Gardens come with a 10-year warranty on the tree and stand, and a 3-year warranty on the lights. For tree and light repair or have any questions about tree storage, call or visit your local English Gardens store.