This season, if you happen to meet a good-looking Christmas Tree Farm owner (Hallmark, anyone?), here’s your guide to impress them with your knowledge! Or to simply pick out the right Christmas Tree for you and your family.
Below is a list of pros and cons for each of the different varieties used for Christmas Trees. We hope it helps you in your search for the right one!
Fraser Fir
Pros: Beautiful, symmetrical shape; strong branches for holding ornaments; excellent needle retention; pleasant aroma; soft, dark green needles.
Cons: May be more expensive than some other options; less widely available in certain regions.
Balsam Fir:
Pros: Classic Christmas tree appearance; pleasant fragrance; good needle retention; moderate pricing.
Cons: Branches may not be as strong as some other varieties.
Douglas Fir:
Pros: One of the most popular Christmas tree choices; good needle retention; affordable; sweet fragrance.
Cons: May not be as sturdy as some other options; needles are softer and may not hold heavier ornaments.
Scotch Pine (or Scots Pine):
Pros: Affordable and widely available; good needle retention; long-lasting; conical shape; can support heavier ornaments.
Cons: Sharp needles that can be painful to touch; less fragrant compared other options.
White Pine:
Pros: Soft, flexible needles; very light in weight; less likely to shed needles; less fragrance for those who are sensitive to scents.
Cons: Less suitable for heavy ornaments; may not have the classic Christmas tree shape.
Blue Spruce:
Pros: Attractive blue-green or silvery-blue color; strong branches; good needle retention; unique appearance.
Cons: Sharp needles that can be uncomfortable to touch; can be expensive; limited availability in some regions.
Norway Spruce:
Pros: Traditional choice in Europe; good needle retention; pyramid-like shape; strong branches.
Cons: Needle drop can be an issue if not properly cared for; may not be as aromatic as some other options.
Concolor Fir (White Fir):
Pros: Soft, long needles with a pleasant citrus-like fragrance; good needle retention; unique appearance.
Cons: Less common and may not be available in all areas; may not support heavy ornaments.
When choosing a Christmas tree, consider your personal preferences, the local availability of tree species, and how you plan to decorate it. Some trees may be better suited for heavy ornaments, while others are chosen for their fragrance or shape. Proper care, such as keeping the tree hydrated, will also influence needle retention and overall appearance.
Fun Fact: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is typically a Norway Spruce (Picea abies) or occasionally a closely related variety. The Norway Spruce is a popular choice because of its classic Christmas tree shape and its ability to withstand the logistical challenges of being transported to and displayed in the heart of New York City.
Let us know what tree you select this year and happy decorating!
-Susan
Leave a Reply