Many people treasure the tradition of selecting their own Christmas tree. Naturally, you want to amplify the holiday spirit with a healthy, vibrant tree rather than one that droops.
You are looking for a beautiful and lush evergreen that fills your home with the lovely scent of pine, which sets the holiday mood.
After all, you deserve a tree that stays vibrant throughout the season, whether you pick it out yourself or have it delivered. Here is how to ensure you bring home the best real Christmas tree.
Recognising the Different Types of Christmas Trees
Firstly, it is important to recognise that no two seasonal trees are identical. There are various popular varieties, each with distinct characteristics that can affect their longevity and overall appearance.
Among the most commonly seen varieties are:
- Fraser Fir is prized for its pleasant scent and excellent needle retention. Its sturdy branches are perfect for hanging decorations.
- Douglas Fir is often fuller and softer to the touch, with a delightful pine-like aroma and vibrant green colour.
- Norway Spruce is elegant and classic, though its needle retention is less reliable. If you seek that authentic Christmas look, it is ideal, but plan for a shorter display period.
- Noble Fir boasts strong branches and remarkable longevity. It is an excellent choice for extended holiday displays, featuring a silvery sheen and typically retaining its needles well.
While each type has its advantages, it is essential to choose one that suits your style and space regardless of the variety.
Are you more concerned with fragrance and durability, or are you pursuing a perfectly symmetrical tree? Even if you opt for live Christmas tree delivery, once you have determined your preferences, finding the right tree becomes much simpler.
Checking the Freshness of the Tree
After selecting the type of tree, the next consideration is its freshness. If you choose a tree personally, following the traditional route allows you to perform a quick, hands-on freshness test.
If you use a live Christmas tree delivery service, you can still inspect your tree upon arrival to ensure it is in excellent condition.
Begin by closely examining the needles. Soft, flexible needles on a newly cut tree do not easily snap when bent. Gently running your hand along a branch will help. If a significant number of needles fall off, the tree is already drying out and will not last through the holidays.
Another method is to lift the tree a few inches and then lower its trunk first to the ground. Vibrant trees shed few needles, especially from the inner parts of the branches. A bad sign is if needles begin to scatter to the floor.
Finally, give the tree a good sniff. A healthy Christmas tree emits a strong pine scent. If it has a faint, musty odour, it has been cut too recently. Trust your nose to guide you.
Inspecting the Tree’s Colour and Shape
A healthy holiday tree’s vibrant colour is a clear indicator of its condition. Fresh trees should exhibit a rich, deep green hue. Needles that are browning or yellowing suggest the tree has been neglected during transport or display or has been cut for some time.
In addition to colour, closely examine the tree’s overall shape. A good tree appears full and well-proportioned. Gaps between branches can indicate the tree has been stressed or damaged during growth.
Unless your aesthetic preference requires it, avoid trees that appear sparse or uneven, even if minor imperfections add character.
Checking the Trunk and Base
The trunk of your Christmas tree tells a vital story. Healthy, well-preserved trees have a moist, green layer just beneath their bark.
Scrape a small section of the trunk with your fingernail to check this. A green layer beneath indicates good condition. If the trunk is brown and dry, the tree is past its prime.
Inspecting the trunk’s base is also crucial. A straight trunk facilitates easy mounting of your tree stand. If the base is crooked, splintered, or too small, mounting can be difficult.
Prepping for Christmas Tree Delivery
For many households, holiday tree shipping services offer huge convenience. The hassle of tree hunting is eliminated for those living in busy cities or those who prefer the ease of shopping from home.
However, you must ensure you are purchasing the healthiest tree available, even with delivery.
Carefully evaluate your delivery service before placing an order. Reputable companies provide guarantees or replacement options if the tree arrives in poor or damaged condition.
To ensure maximum freshness, choose providers that cut the tree as close to the delivery date as possible.
Upon receiving your tree, promptly unwrap it and conduct a thorough inspection using the freshness and colour checks mentioned earlier. Make a cut at the trunk’s base if everything appears satisfactory. This allows the tree to absorb water more effectively.
Caring for Your Evergreen
Once you have chosen or received your real Christmas tree, the work does not end. Maintaining your tree’s freshness for an extended period benefits greatly from a bit of care and attention.
Ensuring it has the required amount of water is crucial. On the first day, a newly cut tree can absorb up to a gallon of water. Therefore, regularly check the water level and replenish it as needed.
Moreover, the water reservoir should always be full. If the tree dries out, a resinous layer can form at the base, preventing proper water absorption later on.
Position your tree away from radiators or fireplaces, which are direct heat sources that can accelerate drying.
Also, avoid placing it in direct sunlight for long periods. These conditions can cause the tree to lose moisture and speed up needle drop.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the traditional tree hunt or the comfort of live Christmas tree delivery, understanding how to identify a healthy tree is essential. This ensures a beautiful centrepiece for your celebrations.
By seeking freshness, inspecting colour and trunk, and providing proper care once it is home, your tree will remain lush and festive throughout the season.
