Your Christmas tree may look ready for Christmas Day, but will it last until then? That is a question many Christmas tree owners ask themselves every year, especially if they went out and cut it down themselves. While some people wait for price selection and purchase their trees the week before Santa comes down the chimney, peak season happened weeks ago, when millions of Americans headed to tree lots and farms to find their conifer of choice.

Depending on the species and how it is cared for, a Christmas tree usually lasts three to five weeks. Tammy Aissen, of Aissen Tree Farm in Pilsen, says care starts the moment you take your tree home and remove it from your vehicle. That includes making a fresh cut on the stump before bringing it inside and keeping the tree well-watered.

The National Fire Protection Association suggests getting rid of your tree right after Christmas or once it dries out. Dried-out Christmas trees are considered a fire hazard, especially if lights are faulty or become hot after long periods of use.