HGI Christmas Tree blog inlay

Elevate your Christmas celebrations with a vibrant centerpiece that infuses your holiday home with warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness. Surround yourself with twinkling lights and the sweet scent of evergreen as you create cherished memories with your loved ones. Discover expert tips on selecting and caring for your perfect Christmas tree to add a touch of magic to the season. Allow us to accompany you on this festive journey, tailored to your unique style. Experience the true spirit of Christmas with our exquisite collection of centerpiece ideas and holiday decorations.

 

Types of Christmas Trees

Fraser Fir BranchFraser Fir

The distinctively scented Fraser Firs are the most popular Christmas tree variety. The branches are angled slightly upward, which makes them perfect for hanging ornaments and lights. These trees also retain their dark green 1/2” to 1” needles well.

Douglas Fir BranchDouglas Fir

Douglas Firs’ needles have a beautiful, sweet scent when crushed. The soft, flat, dark blue-green needles radiate out in all directions. Due to its shape and lovely scent, the Douglas Fir variety makes up more than half of the Christmas trees sold in the United States!

Noble Fir BranchNoble Fir

Another great option is the Noble Fir. It has sturdy, evenly-spaced branches that are angled slightly upward. It is the premier choice for supporting precious bulbs of weight or size and its long-lasting ability makes it a popular choice for trees, as well as greenery for wreaths and garlands. 

Nordmann Fir BranchNordmann Fir

The Nordmann Fir has attractive, dark, glossy needles and the best needle retention of all trees. It does not have a fragrance, so it’s a good choice for families with allergies or those who don’t enjoy the typical tree aroma.

 

Potted and Ball and Burlap Trees

Some families have created a Christmas tree corner in their yard and plant their new tree there each year. Others care for the tree through the winter and donate it to a charity or silent auction (it is great for school fundraisers!) in late Winter or early Spring. Choosing a potted tree like Blue Spruce or Alberta Spruce means you’ll be opting for a much smaller tree than you could otherwise have, but if you follow the directions below, you can plant it outdoors in the spring and enjoy it for longer. 

 

Which Type of Tree is Best for You?

When it comes to choosing the perfect tree for your Christmas celebrations, there are several factors to consider. From the length of the needles to the delightful fragrance they emit, and even the strength of the branches to hold your precious ornaments – it all plays a role in creating that magical Christmas ambiance.

As you navigate through the options, it’s important to note that most common Christmas trees have short needles. However, if you desire a fragrant experience, consider the Fraser Fir, known for its delightful aroma. Additionally, for excellent needle retention, look into the Noble, Nordmann, Fraser, and Douglas trees, as they are known for their remarkable ability to keep their needles intact.

One outstanding choice is the Noble Fir, which offers a harmonious blend of attributes. Not only does it retain its needles exceptionally well, but it also provides sturdy branches to showcase all your favorite ornaments, ensuring a beautiful and joyous display throughout the holiday season. So, take your time to select a tree that perfectly suits your preferences and needs, as every detail contributes to the magic of your Christmas festivities.

 

How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh the Whole Season

To maintain the freshness and longevity of your Christmas tree, it’s crucial to keep the water well of the tree stand filled. Regularly check and maintain water levels, as fresh trees can consume up to one gallon of water per day. Using a Christmas tree preservative like Prolong Tree Preservative, available at Homestead Gardens, can also enhance the tree’s lifespan by preserving its needles while providing essential hydration.

When selecting a tree stand, consider its size capacity, both in terms of height and diameter, to meet your specific needs. Opt for a stand with a generous water capacity and an easy refilling process. We highly recommend Bowling’s Last Stand for your tree.

Remember to position the tree away from heat vents and other sources of warmth to keep it cool. Cooler locations are ideal for maintaining the tree’s freshness.

If you have pets, it’s important to secure the tree to the wall to prevent any accidental toppling. Adorned Christmas trees can be alluring to playful pets, especially young dogs and cats. Use fishing line to attach the tree to hooks on the wall for added stability.

For potted trees, follow these guidelines: if you plan to replant the tree outdoors after the holidays, limit its indoor stay to a few days. Subsequently, return it outside and postpone planting until spring. Treat potted trees similar to traditional Christmas trees by watering regularly and keeping them away from heat vents. Be sure to care for the tree throughout winter and spring until it is fully established in the garden.

Christmas trees bring joy and vibrancy into homes during the holiday season. Choose the perfect tree for your family and take care of it properly to enjoy its beauty throughout the entire season.