Tests indicate that the first days in a stand are most crucial to moisture uptake. Studies have shown that a Douglas-fir tree without water will not last more than 10 to 14 days. With an adequate water supply, tree owners can expect to triple this. To prolong your trees's life, first if the tree has been cut for more than six hours, the butt must be re-cut prior to placing it into the stand. Second, the three stand must hold an adequate amount of water.
Tests indicate at least a gallon capacity is required.
If the water dips below the bottom of the tree, a seal forms that will prevent the tree from absorbing more water even when the stand is refilled. If you can't find a stand which holds this amount of water, you may want to try using a plastic paint bucket with rocks in it to hold the tree upright. The larger the tree trunk, the more water it will use. Other WSU tests prove conclusively that a well-watered tree will resist fire far longer than a tree that is displayed dry. Holly leaves will begin to drop about a week after they're harvested if you don't treat them with anything, even if you keep the stems in water.