When you bring the tree home, cut off about one inch of the trunk and plae the tree in a bucket of water until you are ready to put it in a tree stand that contains water.
The tree will absorb a lot of water the first few days. Check the water level once or twice a day and refill as needed. Do not let the container dry out.
Place the tree away from heat sources like heater vents, the fireplace, T.V., etc.
Sources for live trees: www.coloradoproud.org, www.fs.fed.us/r2/recreation/christmas.