If you are like most homeowners, you are faced with the decision of which Christmas tree to buy for about 10 minutes once per year. The other 364 and 119/120ths of the year, you may forget about the fact there are choices to make. Given that tree species have wildly different characteristics and that the cost of a tree is not a trivial amount, we want to help you make the best choice. Below are a few key factors to consider before comparing trees at the local Christmas tree stand:
Size: This may seem obvious, but it seems very common that we homeowners (or apartment dwellers) buy a tree that is too large for the room it is placed in. Measure the height and width of the desired tree before you go shopping, and bring the tape measure along. Keep in mind that the tree will spread apart further once you bring it home, and that the tree will be propped up on a stand and may have a star or other decoration on top. Buying a tree that is a good 24 inches shorter than the floor-to-ceiling height of the room is probably a good idea. In case you are curious, the typical 6 foot Christmas tree that was raised on a tree farm is about 6-9 years old.
Appearance: The appearance of the tree, especially in terms of symmetry and "fullness", will largely be dictated by the type of tree you buy. As a general rule, the Firs will provide a very full appearance, while the pines may be more open and rugged.
Tree Health: Regardless of what species of tree you choose, do a couple basic tests to ensure the tree is healthy. Shake the tree briefly -- do many needles fall off, or just a few? Wrap your hand around one of the branches -- do the needles break and snap off, or are they flexible? Any tree showing signs of dryness at the tree lot will not last long in your house.
Fragrance: There is a huge variance between trees as to how fragrant they are, and how long they will keep that fragrance. The Balsam Fir is one of our favorites due to its fragrance, but expect to pay for for it. Other trees, particularly some of the pines, are less fragrant. Douglas Fir and Cedars also have good scent qualities.
Allergies: If someone in your home or anyone who will be attending your holiday gathering has allergies, take that into consideration. Some trees, such as a White Pine, are more benign in terms of allergy triggering. Some of the more fragrant trees, which 95% of us prefer, can be much more problematic for allergy sufferers. Keep in mind that many allergies that are triggered around a Christmas Tree are not caused by the tree at all, but rather mold in the water basin, spray applied to the tree, or dust mites from the old, stored decorations.
Needle Drop: If you plan to keep your Christmas tree for 3 weeks or more, you'll want a tree that holds on to its needles for a long time. Because the warm, dry air found inside a home is a shocking change from what most trees experience in the outdoors, many tend to shed their needles even when watered well. Firs and many Pines are known for hanging on to their needles for a long time in indoor conditions; Spruce and Cedars tend to only hold their needles for 2-3 weeks. If you only have your tree up for a couple weeks, it is a moot point and you have much more flexibility.
