Choosing Your Holiday Tree

Published July 19, 2012

It’s that time of year again. The nurseries are stocking up on all our favorite trees to bring home for the Holidays this season. If you are planning on purchasing a fresh tree this year you may want to keep a few of the following tips in mind before you head out.

A little bit of planning really pays off before you purchase your tree. It’s important to decide where to place the tree within the home. Never place it near heat sources such as fireplaces and radiators. It’s also a good idea to keep the tree out of high traffic areas where it may be bumped or tripped upon. If you are placing it on hardwood floors, make sure you have a waterproof container that will not leave a water mark on the floor.

Measure the height of your ceiling. Will it fit in the living room? Remember to add in the height of your tree stand and your tree top ornament before purchasing the tree. It’s also important to measure the width of the tree. Will it fit in the corner or between your furniture pieces? Write these numbers down on a piece of paper and have them with you when you go.

Packing a tape measure and some good, heavy gloves is another good idea. The gloves will protect your hands from the rough branches and the tape measure will help confirm the size of the tree. Protect your car with an old blanket for transport if you decide to place it inside the vehicle. Otherwise bring along some strong twine to secure the tree to the top of the vehicle. It’s a good idea to have some water in a bucket waiting for you when you return. Ask the salesperson to give your tree a fresh cut and place the tree immediately in the water upon arrival.

There are many verities of trees to choose from so be particular in your choice.  The shorter needle trees such as Fraser and Noble Fir are excellent choices for decorating due to the spaces in between the branches. The ornaments will hang straight on these branches as opposed to hanging on an angle on the thicker, more lush variety of trees. Other trees such as the Balsam Fir and Scotch Pine are lovely, fragrant choices that will fill the home with the aroma of the Holidays.

Finally, make sure your tree is fresh.  The needles should appear shiny and green and not dry and brown. Pull on a few of the needles to see if they fall off. If they do, leave that tree behind and look for another.