Picking a tree is a treasured family tradition, and choosing the one that is just right is an exciting adventure. Below are a few tips to ensure you pick the perfect one.
Before leaving the house, measure the space you intend to use for the tree. Measurements to include are the height of the ceiling, the width of the space (so no branches are squished or bent against walls), and the height of your stand (as this will add a couple inches onto the tree’s height).
Shop local! Picking a place that has fresh Christmas trees near you is a great way to ensure quality. And it allows you to get the tree home quickly to begin the decorating!
Know what type of tree you are looking for. Balsam Fir and Fraser Fir are the most common types. Balsam is known for having the most fragrant smell, and Frasers are known to keep their needles the longest. A relatively new style of tree, the Canaan Fir is elegant and shares the best characteristics from both the Frasier Fir and the Balsam Fir. The branches are thick and full, and it has excellent needle retention.
A special type of cut is also available at Vande Hey this year! We have Victorian Balsam, Fraser and Canaan cut trees. This cut is a more traditional cut tree that allows for a more natural look. The cut leaves some areas more open so that there is more space to show off your ornaments! It’s a really neat look you have to come in and see!
There are also White Pines that offer a slightly different look. Their needles are longer, softer, and more flexible than firs and are often grouped in clusters of five. Their branches are a little thinner which makes them more suitable for smaller ornaments. They also don’t give off as strong a scent as firs which can help with allergies.
Test the tree before you purchase it. The branches and needles should be flexible, not brittle or stiff to the touch. You can test this by running your hand along the branches or holding the tree up and tapping it on the ground. A few needles may fall off, but if the tree sheds too much, it’s not fresh. Also check the tree’s color. A good Christmas tree should be a good natural green color. If the tree is brown or a dull green, it’s best to move on to a livelier tree.
Once you purchase a tree, it is up to you to take care of it and keep it hydrated throughout the season. If you are driving quite a distance to get your tree, you may want to wrap it before you pack it up as a tree can dry out in the wind on the way back.
When you get home, make a fresh cut an inch from the end of the so your tree can absorb water. This ensures the tree will retain its needles longer and prevent drooping. Add lots of water as soon as possible, the first couple of days your tree may go through more than a gallon. Keep an eye on your tree and check it every day. Never let the water level drop too far or allow the stand to go dry as your tree can seal the end which stops future water absorption.
Whether you are interested in a Fraser, Balsam or Cannan Fir or a White Pine, Vande Hey Company can assist you in picking the perfect tree! We have Christmas Trees available now, ranging from 5 feet to 10 feet in height. We also have Tabletop Christmas Trees which are perfect for smaller spaces or arrangements on your front porch as they are between 2.5 and 4 feet tall. We will also bale your tree for easy transport.
Have a safe and Merry Christmas this season!