How to Choose the Perfect Fresh-Cut Christmas Tree: A Guide to Popular Varieties

To choose a fresh cut Christmas tree that suits your preferences, keep in mind these essential factors:

1. Freshness: Freshly cut trees have flexible branches and green, sappy needles.
2. Variety: Different types of trees have unique qualities in terms of appearance, scent, and needle retention.
3. Needle Retention: Some trees retain needles better than others, reducing cleanup.
4. Straightness of Trunk: A straight trunk will make the tree easier to stand.
5. Density of Foliage: Consider if you want a dense or sparser look.
6. Shape: The tree’s shape can affect how well ornaments hang and the overall aesthetic.
7. Fragrance: Different trees offer distinct fragrances, so choose one that matches your preference.
8. Branch Stiffness: Stiffer branches support heavier ornaments.
9. Needle Length: The needle length varies by tree type and affects appearance and feel.

Popular Varieties:

Scotch Pine: The most popular, with coarse foliage and a reasonable price.

Douglas Fir: Known for its fine, flexible foliage and straight shape, but often more expensive.

Colorado Spruce: Available in blue or green, with decorative, stiff needles, usually at a higher price.

White Spruce: Traditional with a reasonable price.

Here’s a table summarizing the key characteristics of each Christmas tree variety for easy comparison:

Variety	Needle Retention	Needle Length	Shape	Fragrance	Density	Straightness
Scotch Pine	Excellent	1-2″	Broad	Good	Thick	Fair
White Pine	Excellent	2-4″	Broad	Good	Average	Good
Austrian Pine	Excellent	2-4″	Broad	Good	Average	Fair
Douglas Fir	Excellent	1-2″	Narrow	Very Good	Thick	Very Stiff
Colorado Spruce	Good	1-1/2″	Broad	Fair	Medium	Good
Norway Spruce	Poor	1/2″-1″	Narrow	Fair	Sparse	Very Good
White Spruce	Fair	1/2″-1″	Medium	Fair	Medium	Very Good
Balsam Fir	Fair	1/2″-1″	Narrow	Very Good	Sparse	Very Good

Never forget, you can always buy a live tree and leave it outside and well watered until a week before the Holiday. Bring it inside, keep it watered, trim it like any Christmas tree, and then plant it on Boxing Day or within a few days following Christmas. Make sure you know where you are going to plant it ahead of time. Maybe even prepare the hole. Talk about a lasting memory.

Watch in the coming weeks for more Christmas tree and other Holiday tips, tricks, and tonics.