How to pick out a Christmas Tree

Thanksgiving has come and gone, now it is time to start thinking about decorating for the Christmas holidays and since the Christmas tree is usually the main focal point, finding the right one is important. Picking out the tree has became a fun tradition for families over the years. Here are some tips on making sure you get the right tree for your family to decorate.

First you are going to want to measure your ceiling, you surely do not want to get the tree, bring it home and find it is too tall. If the tree is too tall, you won't be able to fit a star or an angel on it, also don't forget to account for the height of your stand and the area in which you plan to put your tree.

Do some research and find the right Christmas tree farm in your area. Nearly one-third of cut tree purchases are made at cut-your-own tree farms, most of these places not only has the cut your own trees but they also offer hayrides and refreshments, and several feature fresh greenery and crafts. And there may be visits from Santa.

Which are the best trees to purchase? Well the two most popular are the Fraser fir and The Douglas fir. The Fraser fir is considered the best tree to purchase. The branches are open and sturdy for decorating, needle color is a blue-green with silvery undersides. Keep in mind though the Fraser’s are the most expensive.

The Douglas fir is the second best tree. The needles are longer than Fraser fir and more green in color, but they’re soft and hold as well as Fraser’s.

Make sure you get the tree home and into water as soon as possible and always keep water in the base. Tree water additives, such as sugar, vinegar, or even specially designed additives, are not effective, use just plain water.

Keep your tree out of direct sunlight and out of the direct blow of heat, this will discolor your tree and shorten it's life.

When decorating always be safe. Make sure lights work before adding them to the tree, and unplug the lights at bedtime or when you're away from home. Do not put breakable tree ornaments or those with small, detachable parts on lower branches where children can reach them.



Merry Christmas.