Verified answer

I get freshly cut ones and stand them in a bucket , covered with crinkled kitchen foil, [for the effect].

Pack sand round the tree and keep it wet. the tree should last all over the festive season with no needle drop.

The original Christmas trees were specimens of Norway Spruce. These trees quicly drop their needles so don't buy one. Nowadays must longer-lasting species are available such as Nordman Fir or Frasier Fir; look for one of these.

3 weeks

it depends on how much water you give them.