One of the most beloved holiday traditions is picking out a fresh-cut Christmas tree. Not only does it fill your home with that unmistakable pine scent, but it’s also the centerpiece of your holiday decor. Choosing the right tree can make all the difference, and with proper care, your tree will last well beyond Christmas morning.
Know What You're Looking For
Every tree has its charm, but it’s worth considering a few factors to make sure you find the right fit for your family and home.
1. Size Matters
Before heading out to pick your tree, measure the ceiling height in the room where it will be displayed. This ensures your tree will fit comfortably without scraping the ceiling—or requiring last-minute trimming. And don’t forget to account for the height of your tree topper!
2. Needle Considerations
If you’ve got little ones running around or if you enjoy walking barefoot, choosing a tree with softer needles can help keep everyone comfortable. Fraser Firs are a favorite for their soft needles and excellent needle retention, meaning fewer prickly messes on the floor.
3. Shape & Fullness
Some folks love a perfectly symmetrical tree, while others go for one with more character. Take a good look at the tree from all angles to see if it matches your vision. Noble Firs are known for their sturdy branches, great for heavy ornaments, while Douglas Firs are celebrated for their fullness and classic look.
Explore Our Varieties
We carry a beautiful selection of fresh-cut Christmas trees to suit every style and need:
Blue Spruce
- Shape: Perfectly symmetrical, this tree looks full with few gaps.
- Needles: Short Silvery-blue needles are 1 inch to 1½ inches long with an extremely sharp point at the end. Good needle retention if watered regularly.
- Scent: Mild aroma, less fragrant compared to fir trees.
- Trimmings: Very sturdy and excellent for heavier decorations. Prickly needles make inner-limb decorating a challenge.
Douglas Fir
- Shape: Dense and cone shaped,with bushy appearance.
- Needles: Light green and soft: Moderate needle retention - best if kept well watered.
- Scent: Sweet aroma
- Trimmings: Limbs are Flexible and less sturdy; best for lightweight ornaments
Fraser Fir
- Shape: The branches turn slightly upward, giving it a full, compact appearance.
- Needles: Short, soft, dark green needles have a silvery underside and are ½ to 1 inch long; excellent needle retention
- Scent: Classic fresh Pine Scent, mild fragrance
- Trimmings: Stiff branches will hold up well to ornaments
Noble Fir
- Shape: Well-shaped conical form, with regularly spaced branches and a smooth taper from bottom to top
- Needles: Firm needles are usually an inch in length, and tend to fold upward on the branch, exposing both the bluish-green tint on top and the variegated silvery-white color on the underside; Outstanding needle retention
- Scent: Beautiful, rich scent
- Trimmings: Sturdy branches that are perfect for displaying ornaments
Take Your Time
Don’t rush the process—your tree is the heart of your holiday decor. Once you find a tree you like, step back and examine it from all sides. Gently pull on a branch to check the needles. If only a few needles fall off, you’re good to go! If a lot come loose, it’s a sign you should keep looking.
Keep It Fresh
Once you've brought your perfect tree home, the next step is setting it up for a long-lasting holiday display. Start by placing it in a sturdy tree stand to ensure it stays upright and secure throughout the season. Fresh-cut trees are thirsty, so be sure to give yours some water as soon as possible.
Pro Tip: Trees Drink A Lot!
During those first few days, your tree will soak up water like crazy. Don’t be surprised if you need to refill the stand often—trees can drink several quarts of water daily at first. Keeping the water level above the base of the trunk is essential to prevent it from sealing over, which would block water absorption.
Let the Branches Settle
Once your tree is standing tall, give it a little time to adjust. The branches need a few hours to relax and settle into their natural shape before you start decorating. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some hot cocoa, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and plan your decorating strategy.
Time to Decorate!
After the branches are settled, the fun begins—stringing lights, hanging ornaments, and topping it all off with a tree topper. Whether you go for a classic look or something more whimsical, your fresh-cut tree is sure to shine as the centerpiece of your holiday celebration.
Cheers to a beautiful tree and a season full of joy! 🌟