Gently bend or flex a small branch. The branch should be pliable and not break. After selection, keep your tree in a sheltered, unheated location to keep it from the sun and wind, preferably in a pail of water, until you are ready to decorate it. Keep the stand filled with water. A fresh tree can absorb over 1 gallon of water per day.
Water keeps the tree from drying out and the needles from dropping.
If the tree runs out of water, even for a short period of time, it will stop taking water and dry out quickly. Keep the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces and radiators. Test and visually inspect your light cords and extension cords for frayed wires or those not in good working order. Unplug the lights when you leave your house or when you go to bed at night. The natural tree is a real tree.