Ditch the sad Charlie Brown Christmas trees with these must-know tips for how to choose a Christmas tree.
Picking out a live Christmas tree is one of the mostclassic holiday traditionsthere is.
This year, don’t settle for a small, scraggly Charlie Brown tree.
Credit: JackF/Getty Images
We’ll show you how to choose a Christmas tree that will last throughout the holiday season!
Mark Chisholm is an arborist and STIHL spokesman.
“Also attempt to tuck the tree into a low-traffic area to avoid accidental bumping and possible safety issues.
You’ll want to leave a minimum of six inches between the top of your tree and the ceiling.
If you’re planning on using a tree topper, allow at least 12 inches.
If you have standard 8-foot ceilings, a 7-foot-tall tree is ideal.
“At the lot, you will see three or four common varieties of trees.
Some trees are dark green and others have gray or white hues.
There are trees with tight branching patterns and then some with more spaces.
Then you get it home and realize that there’s very littlespace for ornaments.
Choosing one with some empty spaces might be a better route.
You could also bring a few of your favorite ornaments with you to test at the lot.
Consider All Angles
Step back 5 to 8 feet and check the tree from several vantage points.
Look for a densely branched tree with good shape, color, and fragrance.
The trunk should be straight (or nearly so) and should not be visible through the foliage.
Check the Tree’s Freshness
First, check the trunk of the fresh Christmas tree.
The trunk should have a slight stickiness to it.
The needles should stay on the tree.
If a lot of needles fall off, keep searching for a different tree.
Err on the side of caution and stick with a “greener is better” mindset.
Freshen the Trunk
Once you get the Christmas tree home, take proper care of the trunk.
The fresh-cut will absorb more water, so your tree holds its needles and keeps its color longer.
Put the tree in water as quickly as you’re able to after making the cut.
Place your tree in a cool and dry spot.
To keep your Christmas tree looking perfect, keep the water in your tree stand filled all the time.
You may need to add water two or even three times the first few days.
These tips will help extend how longyour real Christmas treewill last.
Your tree will stay fresh for about 4-6 weeks with proper care.
Other communities have extensive erosion programs that take advantage of this biodegradable resource.”
Check your local municipality’s website orwebsites like Earth911.comfor more information.
A good tip count for a 6 foot tree is 800 or more.
For a 7 foot tree, look for 1,200-1,500 tips.
Fraser firs and spruce trees have strong branches that shouldn’t droop when ornaments are placed on them.
No matter which throw in of tree you end up choosing, double-check it has stiff, sturdy branches.
Most people will buy a 7 foot tree for their home.
Just check that you have a plan for decorating the areas that are out of reach.
