Picking the perfect, live Christmas tree can be a hassle if you're unsure what to expect.
There are some essential things you can do to ensure you get the most out of a Christmas tree.
Here are the top 10 tips for picking the perfect trees, care of experts at Bustard's Christmas Trees:
- Know exactly how much tree you need. Before looking for a tree, measure the space you have for your tree display.
- Test the freshness of the tree by breaking a needle. A fresh needle will snap crisply, while an old needle will not.
- Check the source. Make sure the tree vendor cuts down new trees throughout the season.
- Take inventory. Know how many or how few decorations will be used to ensure the tree can handle the job.
- Ornamental decisions. Trees that can hold heavy ornamentation are the Fraser, Noble, Concolor and/or Balsam. For fewer ornaments, choose a Douglas fir.
- Know what you like. Before hitting the tree lot, take a look at RealChristmasTrees to browse species.
- Check the tree stand. Is it the right size to hold not only the tree, but water?
- Trim the bottom. Ask for a trim on the bottom of the tree to ensure that the trunk will fit the bottom of the stand.
- Drill a hole. If the tree stand has a pin, be sure to have a hole drilled in the trunk.
- Take a little off the bottom. Have a thin layer sliced off of the bottom of the trunk so the tree can absorb water and stay green.
