The tradition of bringing a fresh-cut evergreen into the home marks the beginning of the holiday season, offering unique fragrance and natural beauty. Selecting the right tree involves more than just finding a pleasing shape; it requires a practical approach to ensure freshness and longevity. This guide provides the necessary steps to choose a vibrant, long-lasting tree that will serve as the perfect centerpiece throughout the holidays.
Preparing for the Purchase
A successful tree search begins at home with precise measurements of your display space. Measure both the height of the ceiling and the width of the area where the tree will sit. For a safe fit that accommodates a tree topper, plan to leave at least a six to twelve-inch gap between the ceiling and the tree’s peak.
The tree stand must also be considered before leaving for the lot. Stands are rated by the maximum tree height they can support and the maximum trunk diameter they can accommodate. Ensuring the stand’s capacity matches the trunk size is necessary for both stability and proper hydration once the tree is home.
Selecting the Right Species
The choice of species determines the tree’s inherent characteristics, including scent, needle retention, and branch strength. The Fraser Fir is favored for its excellent needle retention and stiff, upward-turning branches that easily support heavier ornaments. It offers a pleasant, mild scent that fills a room without being overpowering.
For a stronger, more traditional aroma, the Balsam Fir is a popular option known for its rich, classic evergreen fragrance. The Balsam Fir tends to have slightly lower needle retention than the Fraser Fir, requiring more vigilant watering. The Douglas Fir is characterized by soft, flexible needles and a sweet, citrus-like scent, but its less stiff branches are better suited for lighter ornaments.
The Scotch Pine is known for its exceptional needle retention, often holding its needles even when the water level temporarily dips. This species features stiff branches capable of holding heavy decorations, but it produces very little aroma. Deciding on the desired balance of fragrance, strength, and needle retention beforehand helps narrow your search to a species that meets your needs.
Assessing Freshness and Quality
Once a species is selected, perform hands-on tests to ensure the individual tree is fresh and properly hydrated. The most reliable method is the shake test: lift the tree a few inches and drop it on its base, or vigorously shake a branch. If an excessive amount of green needles falls, the tree has likely dried out and should be avoided.
Next, conduct a pliability check by gently bending a few needles between your fingers. Needles on a fresh tree should be flexible and resilient, bending without breaking immediately. If the needles feel brittle or snap easily, it signals dehydration and premature shedding. Also check the tree’s color for a deep, vibrant green, as a washed-out appearance suggests the tree was cut long ago.
Immediate Care After Selection
Once the tree is purchased, immediate action is required to ensure it can absorb water effectively and remain fresh indoors. When a tree is cut, the severed end of the trunk quickly seals itself with sap, a natural defense mechanism that prevents moisture loss. This sap seal blocks water uptake when the tree is placed in a stand.
To reopen the tree’s vascular system, make a fresh, straight cut across the trunk base, removing a thin one-half to one-inch disk of wood. This cut must be made just prior to placing the tree in the stand, ideally within an hour, before a new sap seal forms. The tree must be immediately secured in a stand filled with plain tap water.
A freshly cut tree will be very thirsty, potentially absorbing a gallon or more of water per day in the first week. Check the water level daily, ensuring the water line never drops below the fresh cut. Finally, place the tree away from all heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, and heating vents, as warmth accelerates moisture loss and increases the risk of fire.