What to Look for in a Christmas Tree

Now that more people are out and about, you’ll probably be getting more visitors during the holidays. Like many people out there, you want the perfect tree for your house or apartment—one that has just the right shape and color with branches sturdy enough to carry the weight of your ornaments.

Picking a tree like that is a challenge—no doubt about it. The summer dryness will affect the tree quality, availability, and choice this Christmas season. So, finding the right tree will be more of a challenge than in other years. We recommend purchasing your tree as soon as possible to avoid any disappointments

The first step in the process is choosing the right evergreen tree. Once you do that, you can start shopping for a tree based on your house’s or apartment’s space. For those looking for something different in a Christmas Tree, you’ll be glad to know that there’s more variety in evergreens than you probably think.

Here is a list of evergreens suitable to cut for a Christmas Tree.

Each of these trees has its advantages as a Christmas Tree. Balsam fir, for example, is often the most reasonably priced. It’s especially fragrant when first cut. The Concolor Fir is relatively new as a Christmas tree and is increasing in popularity. It has a pleasant aroma and good needle retention. Meanwhile, Leyland Cypress is a popular choice in the southeastern US. It’s an excellent choice for people with allergies.

Christmas trees in Rhode Island are a $6 million business. They’re a critical part of the state’s agricultural industry, according to the RI Tree Growers Association (RITGA). Area farms, says the association, have been growing Christmas trees for over 50 years. Many see generations of families return year after year. Best tree selections include the Balsam Fir, White Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, and Douglas fir. They have sturdy branching and long needle retention.

Tips on Picking a Christmas Tree

You want a tree that fits the space you’re putting it in and provides the right look once it’s “dressed” up. Below are eight tips to help you do that:

Pick the tree type you want

Match the tree to room dimensions by measuring ceiling height and clearance width in the room where you will place the tree.

Know the maximum trunk diameter for your stand. 

Choose a tree with shorter needles.

Bring a tape measure when picking a tree.

Look at the space between branches.

Choose a fresh tree. Shake or stomp the tree against the ground. If too many needles fall off, pick another tree.

Keep the tree away from space heaters, stoves, fireplaces, etc.

Make a new cut at the bottom before putting it in the stand. Cut a 1/2” wood chip from the bottom of the tree trunk to help the uptake of water by the tree.

Secure the tree to a solid base.

Water, water, water. Fill the water stand daily to maintain tree freshness and needle retention.

Make sure you pick a suitable tree stand. Look for one that holds a lot of water. You’ll spend less time filling the stand with water. If you have a tall, wide room, pick a tree stand for the large tree you choose. A small stand works well if you’re putting your tree on a table. Finally, get an easily adjustable stand so you can level the tree.

When Christmas is over, don’t throw the tree away. Recycle it. Check your city or town’s website to see how to do that.  Above all, don’t burn your tree or the branches. That could present a fire hazard. EHSO.com provides information on recycling trees.

To find a local Christmas tree farm, visit the RITCGA’s website: www.richristmasstrees.com. Contact the Rhode Island Tree Council (RITree) for information on tree care: www.ritree.org. RITree conducts tree identification and care workshops throughout the year.