If you don't plan to put the tree up right away, cut one inch off of the base, put the tree in a bucket of water and stand it in a shady place. When you bring the tree indoors, cut 1/2 to one inch off of the base of the trunk and place in a tree stand that holds at least one gallon of water. Do not place the tree near a fireplace, heater vents or other heat sources. Always keep the tree well-supplied with water. Check the water level in the stand several times each day. Trees may use several quarts of water a day. Never let the water level fall below the base of the tree. If this occurs, the cut end can seal over, preventing further water uptake. The tree must then be taken down and a fresh cut made to allow water uptake. Adding aspirin, soda water, bleach or sugar to the water in the tree stand is no more effective in keeping the tree fresh than adding plain water each day.