How To Choose The Right Tree

The long standing tradition of going out and cutting down your own Christmas tree is likely a thing of the past for most households.  The convenience and savings of using an artificial tree has changed that tradition.  I do not use live trees because of both allergy issues and difficulty keeping the tree in good shape for the long span of time my decor is up.  Here are a few things to consider if you decide to use a real tree.
Tree Size

• Determine where you will place your tree before shopping.  Measure the height of the space to know how much room you have to work with.
• If you don't know the height of your space, buy taller than you think you may need.  You can always trim back the top or cut back on the bottom.
• If your planning to place your tree in a window, it's a good idea to measure the width.  This way you can purchase a tree that fits the proportions of the window.

Tree Quality

• Be sure to check that your tree is fresh.  Signs of a tree that is already drying out are simple to spot.  It's a bad sign if the tree is already loosing a large amount of needles.  You can also bend on the bottom branches to see if it's flexible.  If they are dry and break, the tree isn't all that fresh.
• Trees that are pre-wrapped in netting are dangerous buys.  You want to be sure and see the shape of your tree.  Buying a pre-wrapped tree could lead to disappointment when you get it home.  You may find it has an odd shape and even sections that are already dead and dried that you were unable to see.

Other Useful Tips

• Trim 1 inch off the bottom of the tree just before putting it into the stand. This will cause it to absorb more water quickly. Give it plenty of water when you first put it up and remember to water it daily.
• Before bringing your tree into the house, give it a firm shake to get the loose needles to fall to the ground. Then, you won't have as much to cleanup.
• Use hot tap water (not boiling) to water the tree. This melts the sap and keeps the tree from creating a "scab" over the end.

Types Of Trees

Noble Fir Christmas Tree

This tree has fairly slim branches, which are easy to decorate and the needles are relatively soft, not prickly. It is usually quite a deep shade of green.

Norway Spruce Christmas tree

This tree tends to be slightly cheaper than other varieties as the needles will drop more easily. Keep well-watered to help keep shedding to a minimum.

Scots Pine Christmas Tree

A popular choice, this tree does hold onto its needles, but should be handled with care as the needles are very sharp.

Nordman Christmas Tree

This lovely bushy tree retains its needles very well and, with its upwards-pointing branches, decorations are in no danger of sliding off.

Blue Spruce Christmas Tree

A good tree for planting out in January, and the blue-tinge looks as striking in the home as it does outside.