Picking out a live Christmas tree is an essential part of the holiday season for many people. The evergreen scent, lush beauty and the excitement of a family activity are all wonderful aspects of buying a real tree. However, it can also present a challenge to choose a suitable one, especially for first-time buyers. That's why we've come up with a list of things to know before buying the first Christmas tree. These tips can help you pick a perfect tree, and keep it fresh throughout the holiday.
When it comes to Christmas trees, size does matter. A tree that looked perfectly charming at the lot might feel like the Griswold family Christmas tree when squeezed into your living room. So before investing in a real tree, measure the height of the ceiling in the room where you intend to place the tree and consider the maximum height that the room can accommodate with your desired tree topper. If the ceilings are eight feet high, you can have a tree that is six or seven feet tall.
Pro tip: Consider the height and width, ensuring you leave ample room for presents and holiday shenanigans.
Not all evergreens are created equal. Familiarize yourself with popular tree varieties such as Douglas Fir, Scotch Pine, and Noble Fir. Each has its own characteristics, from needle type to fragrance. Understanding these nuances ensures you get the tree that suits your taste and space.
If you opt for a real tree, freshness is key. Run your fingers along the needles; they should be pliable, not brittle. Give the tree a gentle shake – if needles fall excessively, it might be past its prime. A fresh tree ensures longevity and minimal needle shedding.
Besides, it is important to consider the overall storage conditions. It is recommended to keep the evergreens in a shaded and cool area. If the trees are displayed on asphalt or concrete, the heat from the sun can warm the ground and potentially harm the conifers.
Safety is paramount, especially with the festive glow of lights. You should choose a tree labeled as fire-resistant to reduce the risk of accidents. Take caution when selecting the lights for decoration too and opt for LED lights whenever possible, as they do not generate heat. It's a small step that ensures your celebrations stay merry and bright for all the right reasons.
Pre-lit trees offer convenience with lights already attached. However, if one bulb fails, the entire section might be affected. It would be best if you opt for a DIY approach with separate strings of lights allows for customization and easier troubleshooting.
Before putting your tree in the stand, trim off about an inch from the bottom straight across. A tree can consume tons of water in its first few days, so make sure to check and replenish the stand with water each day. Additionally, you should keep an eye out for anything that could speed up the drying process. To ensure that the stand is always supplied with water, it's a good idea to quickly check it in the morning and before going to bed as a minimum requirement.
There will undoubtedly be insects dwelling on the tree because it has been outside. Aphids, praying mantises, and spider mites are among the tiny insects you could find on your Christmas tree. Shaking the tree both before you purchase it and before you get it inside your house is one way to get rid of the bugs.
To lessen the amount of creepy crawlies, you may also let the tree sit in your garage for a few days before bringing it inside. Even though it may be tempting, avoid using an aerosol spray insecticide on the tree as this poses a risk of fire.
If you have pets, especially a hyperactive one, you might want to consider getting an artificial tree instead. Chewing animals may find a living tree dangerous, as the oils from some trees' needles can irritate their mouths and even result in symptoms like vomiting or even fatal intestinal blockages. Additionally, certain trees might have chemical preservatives applied to them, which might poison animals.
One of the things to know before buying the first Christmas tree is to choose your display spot before purchasing your evergreen because it will affect the tree's width and height. For example, you might want to buy a taller tree if you're placing it in a room with higher ceilings.
For a Christmas tree in the center of the living room, it must be nice from all views and dimensions. Keep an eye out for any heat vents or adjacent fireplaces, as placing your tree next to a heat source can cause it to dry out faster and shed more.
It depends on how long you plan to display your tree. When maintained indoors and given the right care, fresh trees can survive up to six weeks. Therefore, you might want to think about delaying your shopping until December if you want to keep it up beyond the New Year. However, don't wait too long as it can limit your choices.
With these 10 things to know before buying the first Christmas tree, you will be armed with newfound knowledge besides a sense of excitement, your tree will become a cherished centerpiece of your holiday traditions. Consider the size, safety, place and caring practices, but above all, don't forget to infuse your tree with your unique style.
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