Christmas Tree Buying and Preparation Tips – Part Two
This is an updated repost from a series that we did last year.
So, you’ve decided to get a real tree…great! You have two options, buy a pre-cut tree at one of your local garden centers or cut your own tree at a tree farm. You won’t have to look around too hard to find pre-cut trees, independent garden centers as well as major retail chains sell them. Most trees farms also cut a select number of trees for their customers. These trees may be fresher than those you find at the retail centers.
Purchasing a pre-cut tree can still be made into a family activity, because half the fun is finding the perfect tree. Many people have the perception that by choosing and cutting their own tree, they will have a more extensive selection. Well, that is true, but it isn’t the major reason why I’d recommend cutting your own.
Pre-cut trees often travel long distances before arriving at their destination. Along the way, they will suffer from dehydration and be subject to drying winds on an open trailer, shortening their remaining life and impacting their natural beauty and scent. If you do decide to purchase a pre-cut tree, you should look for a garden center that sources the trees locally and keeps the trunks submerged in water. Often times, the large retail outlets compound the problems caused during transportation by leaving the trees bound and dry. Of course, the best place for a pre-cut tree is your local tree farm, although we find that most don’t store them properly either.
Before buying a pre-cut tree, test it’s freshness by pulling on and gently shaking the branches or gently banging the tree against the ground on it’s stump. If there is more than light needle loss, move on. You may find some areas of dry brown needles – this is okay, as long as it is limited. Also make sure that the bottom portion of the trunk in straight, otherwise it will not sit properly in the stand and will likely tip over at some point.
Timber...
By cutting your own, you don’t have to worry about any of those problems! Most farms will help you cut the one that you choose (and carry it back). This is definitely the best option if you are looking for extensive choices and a fresh tree.
They'll Help You Cut
They'll Help You Haul
You should choose a farm based upon its proximity to your home. The shorter the distance, the less exposure the tree will encounter on your trip home. Of course, you’ll also want to make sure that they offer the species and sizes of trees that you want. Most farms offer a half-dozen or so species and generally sizes will range from 5-9 feet, with taller trees in shorter supply. If you have a favorite, call in advance or check on their website to make sure they offer that type of tree this year and confirm their current size ranges. Because farms often rotate their growing, not all species may be available every year in the size you are seeking.
You can find a list of Christmas tree farms at the following websites or in your local newspaper.
National Christmas Tree Association
The least expensive tree, the Scotch Pine is sturdy, but has “sharper” needles. The White Pine has softer needles, but isn’t suitable for heavy ornaments. We like the Douglas Fir with its soft needles and sweet citrus scent or the Blue and Norway Spruce with their sturdy branches and fragrant pine scent. Because characteristics vary widely, before you decide on a tree, be sure to review the NCTA species information to ensure you choose the most suitable tree for your family. When you arrive at the farm, be sure to get a map or a verbal explanation of the layout. Species are often sectioned, so you can go directly to that area if you’ve already chosen what you like best.
Now that you’ve chosen what you want and where to get it, you’re ready for the big day out! In our final part, we’ll walk you through the process and give you the tips you need to keep your tree looking and smelling fresh throughout the holiday season. Don’t forget you’re camera!
Disclosure
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- Finding The Perfect Christmas Tree If you're brave and doing your own cutting, make sure you bring a well sharpened saw, or be prepared to hack away at the sticky...
- Trees For Troops 2011 They need generous families like yourselves to donate 16,000 trees to reach their goal of 100,000 trees donated since their inception in 2005. ...
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