An artificial Christmas tree works fine for some families. It’s certainly easy to care for, and between holiday seasons you just stick it back in the box in the basement, and then reuse it every December.
But you can’t beat the tradition of a real Christmas tree, a natural Christmas tree. The look, the smell, the feel of it is a constant evocation of the spirit of Christmas.
If you decide to go with a real tree this year, follow these steps to make the best choice:
1. Determine the right size.
Mostly this is a matter of height, though depending on where you’re going to put the tree, girth could come into it as well.
Measure the distance from floor to ceiling where you intend to put the Christmas tree. Subtract from that the height that the tree stand will add to the tree (usually about 6 inches), the height of a base or anything you’re putting under the tree stand, and the height of the angel or any tree topper ornament you’re using. This is the maximum height of the tree (after it’s cut) that you can buy.
So let’s say there’s 7 feet, 10 inches from floor to ceiling. You’re using a stand that adds 6 inches to the height of the tree, with nothing underneath the stand. The ornament you plan to put on top of the tree is 8 inches high.
You would subtract 14 inches from the 7 feet, 10 inches, giving you 6 feet, 8 inches. Make sure you don’t get a tree bigger than that. (If a tree is 7 feet before it’s cut, cutting it down will knock off probably about 6 inches, bringing it under your maximum, so that size or smaller should be fine.)
2. Decide between a precut tree or one that you chop down when you buy it.
The obvious advantage of the tree you cut yourself is that it’s fresher. The pre-cut tree has already been dead for days or weeks, and even if it’s been properly cared for, that makes a difference. The longer it’s been since a tree was cut down, all else being equal, the less green and fresh it will look and smell, and the more it will shed its needles. A shedding tree creates a mess to clean up, and is more of a fire hazard.
The main disadvantage of a tree you have to cut yourself is the labor of chopping down a tree. Luckily some Christmas tree farms will assist you with cutting down a tree and hauling it to your vehicle.
3. Decide where to buy your tree.
Much of this comes down to common sense factors like price, distance from your home, number and variety of trees available, etc.
If you’re buying a pre-cut tree, you want to buy from a lot that uses trees that were not cut down too long ago, and takes good care of their trees to keep them as fresh as possible. Trees should be displayed in water, and shielded from direct sun and wind. If you run your hand gently through the branches, not many needles should drop off.
4. Decide what type of tree to buy.
Different varieties of trees differ in numerous relevant respects, aesthetic and otherwise. They are different colors and different fragrances. They hold their needles better or worse. Some have needles that are stiff enough to scratch you. Some are fuller and some have more space between the branches.
Call the Christmas tree farms in your area and find out what varieties are available for you to choose from among. Then do a little research online about their characteristics, and decide which type best fits your preferences.
5. Come prepared.
Make sure you come in a vehicle big enough for the size tree you intend to get. Bring a saw if you’ll be cutting down your own tree. Bring a tape measure, and rope or cord to tie the tree to your vehicle.
6. Pick your tree.
Don’t grab the first tree that catches your eye. Take your time and look over a lot of possibilities.
Get out your tape measure and make sure any tree you’re considering is the right size. The tree should be of a healthy color and have a pleasant fragrance. The branches should be sturdy enough to hang ornaments and lights. The needles should adhere to the branch and be flexible, not brittle to the touch. Choose a tree with a straight base long enough that after you cut it there will be enough left to fit in your tree stand.
If your tree will be in a corner where it will not be visible from all sides, it’s OK to have some bare spots or some areas that don’t look as good on one side. But if your tree will be in the center of a room, make sure it’s symmetrical and looks good from all sides. Pick a tree with the length, style, and spacing of branches that fits the ornaments or other decorations you’ll be using.
If you’re getting a pre-cut tree, make sure they make a clean cut of the trunk for you.
7. Get your tree home quickly.
A Christmas tree needs to be in water as soon as possible after its cut. Within three or four hours after it’s cut, if it is left to dry out, sap will begin to form over its trunk, making it impossible to draw water.
Sources:
Marie Iannotti, “Choosing Your Christmas Tree.” About.com.
“How Can I Make My Tree Live Longer?” Wise Geek.
“Selecting a Christmas Tree.” Pick Your Own Christmas Tree.