Best Tips for Buying a Real Christmas Tree
he holiday season is upon us, and it’s time to start thinking about the centerpiece of your holiday decor: the Christmas tree. A real Christmas tree can fill your home with the enchanting aroma of pine needles and create a warm, festive atmosphere. But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect tree? This guide will help you select the ideal real Christmas tree for your home, ensuring a joyful and memorable holiday season.
Size & Shape
Before you go shopping for any Christmas tree, measure the area where you’ll display the tree. Pay special attention to the ceiling height and the available space you have to accommodate the width of the tree.
You should also think about the shape of the tree that you prefer. Some people like a full, symmetrical tree, while others prefer a more natural, irregular shape. Some trees have a cone-like shape, while others have a plump, Hershey Kiss-like shape1. The shape of the tree can also affect how many ornaments and decorations you can hang on it.
Type and Fragrance
The most popular fresh-cut Christmas trees come from the fir species. These species have flat and waxy needles that are up to 1-1/2 inches long and attached directly to branches in long, dense rows. Color varies from a silvery green to dark green, and some species have touches of reddish brown on the buds. Firs have a very noticeable fragrance that lasts all season long.
There are several varieties of fir trees to choose from, each with its own characteristics and advantages. Here are some of the best fir Christmas trees:
Noble fir: This is a premium fir tree that has a majestic and elegant look. It has long, sturdy branches that are ideal for hanging large and heavy ornaments. It has blue-green needles with a silver tint and a pleasant aroma. Noble fir is also one of the longest-lasting fir trees.
Grand fir: This is a beautiful fir tree that has a glossy and lustrous appearance. It has flat, shiny needles that are dark green on top and silver-white on the bottom. It has a rich and spicy fragrance that fills the room. Grand fir is also one of the fastest-growing fir trees.
Freshness and Care
To pick a real fir Christmas tree, you should look for the greenest tree with the fewest brown needles. You can also perform the “drop test” by bouncing the tree by holding it a few inches above the ground and dropping it. If too many needles fall off, the tree is already past its prime.
You can also test the branches by grabbing any branch on the tree between your thumb and forefinger, gently clamp down and pull towards yourself. If you end up with a handful of needles, the tree is dry. You can also crush the needles in your hand and then check the scent. If the tree doesn’t smell enough, don’t buy it.
Once you bring your tree home, you should make a fresh cut at the base of the trunk, about an inch or two from the original cut. This will help the tree absorb water better and stay fresh longer. You should also place the tree in a stand that can hold at least a gallon of water and check the water level daily. A fresh-cut fir tree can drink up to a gallon of water per day.
To prolong your tree’s life and ensure safety, keep it away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and direct sunlight. These can cause the tree to dry out quickly and become a fire risk. Additionally, refrain from using candles, sparklers, or other flammable decorations on or near your tre
