How To Choose Your Perfect Christmas Tree
The Christmas Tree is perhaps the most easily recognizable icon symbolizing the arrival of the Christmas holiday season. For generations, families have enjoyed the transition from fall to winter by setting up their Christmas trees together. It’s a tradition in which all have our own variations that are as unique and special as every tree. Your tree acts as a warm beacon signifying togetherness and celebration, while providing an attractive display to set your gifts around. With the eye-catching contrast of vivid green needles against dazzling ornaments, it’s no wonder that Christmas doesn’t feel complete without a lovingly adorned tree. Choosing the right tree for your home and family can ensure that your holiday is truly as magical as it should be.
Christmas Trees come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and shades. There are trees in many shades of green, some even leaning toward blue, white, or grey. Firs, pines, and spruces are the most common types of trees. Each tree has its own set of characteristics; finding the right one can be a fun and festive experience. Fraser firs and scotch pines are best known for their needle retention. If fragrance is on the top of your list, a balsam will be the most fragrant and is the most common all-around Christmas tree. Some trees, such as a scotch or white pine, have looser branch patterns, which might be the right option for you if you intend to put a lot of lightweight decorations and ribbons on your tree. Trees with stiffer branches, such as frasers or balsams, are a good choice for anyone with heavier or larger ornaments. If you have small children that might be touching the needles often, a white pine has the softest needles compared to the other varieties.
One of the most important factors to consider when preparing for your tree is the placement around any sort of heat source. You want to avoid heat sources like vents, radiators, fireplaces, ovens, woodburning stoves, etc. as not only do they pose a fire hazard, but they can also cause your tree to dry out and prematurely drop needles. Another important aspect to avoid is placing your tree in drafty areas as these also lead to drying and needle drop.
It is important to measure the space in which you plan to place your tree. The most popular Christmas tree height for the home is 6ft-7ft followed by 5ft-6ft. It’s best to have at least 6 inches of space from the top of the tree to the ceiling. Be sure to allow for enough space for your topper as well. It’s good to have an idea of how tall you want the decorated tree to be before making your selection.
With so many options to choose from and so many possibilities to decorate with, it’s easy to get into the holiday spirit while picking out and decorating your Christmas tree. Whether you go with a tall, towering evergreen or a small tabletop accent tree, you can’t go wrong with the authentic and timeless charm of a real Christmas tree in your home.