Nothing fills your home with the holiday spirit quite like a Christmas tree. A real tree will exude an invigorating, heady aroma that no candle or aerosol can will ever match. Unfortunately, real Christmas trees have a tendency to dry out, making them an eyesore and a fire hazard.

By following the tips below, your tree should last four or five weeks - plenty of time for everyone to enjoy during the festive season.

* First of all, follow tips for choosing a fresh, hydrated tree.

* Once you get your tree home, take it to an outside area and hose it down with your water hose. This will remove any dead needles, dust, dirt, and insects.

* Next, cut a two-inch thick disc from the base of the tree. Once a tree has been harvested, thick rosin begins to cover the base within hours. This sticky substance makes it impossible for the tree to "drink" water.

* Immediately place the tree in a stand with water. A stand that holds at least a gallon of water is best. Many tree stands now come with a reservoir that automatically waters the tree. These types of stands provide water to the Christmas tree on their own. All you have to do is make sure the reservoir is full at all times with clean, cool water.

* Once the tree has dried from its shower, bring it inside. Choose a proper place for the tree, away from drafts, fireplaces, heaters, and central heating and air conditioning vents. Any of these will excellerate your Christmas tree's drying and will shorten the "life" of your tree.

* Check your tree stand at least once a day for water.

* Have you seen the automatic tree waterers that look like gifts? they look great under the tree and they provide thirsty trees with a constant supply of water.

After Christmas is over, properly dispose of your tree.