What kind of Christmas tree should you buy?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree! If you're a live-tree enthusiast during the holiday season, you'll know there are many different options to purchase. Which variety is most aromatic? Which is the most difficult to decorate? Which drops the fewest needles? We answer those questions in a round-up of the most common trees for sale around Christmas to make your tree choosing easy peasy.
What kind of Christmas tree should I buy?
Balsam Fir
With compact, soft, dark blue-green needles and a pyramidal shape the Balsam fir is best known for its strong fragrance.
Pro: Most aromatic of all the trees. Con: Its delicate branches are better suited to lighter ornaments.
White pine
With long, graceful needles the white pine stands out from all the other trees with its soft, feathery appearance. Pro: Has little or no fragrance which makes it ideal for allergy suffers. Con: Soft needles make it difficult to decorate.
Scotch Pine
This thick, hardy tree comes in shades of blue-green or yellow-green and is the most planted tree in North America. Pro: Has excellent needle retention even if you forget to water it. Con: Some trees have a slightly unusual shape.
Blue spruce
Short, stiff powdery blue needles make this an ideal choice for ornamentals such as wreaths. Pro: Often sold as a living Christmas tree with a root ball attached meaning it can be replanted. Con: Needles can be quite sharp.
Fraser Fir
The winning combination of dark green colour, pleasant scent, proportion and its ability to hold its needles has made this fir the most popular choice in Canada. Pro: Soft needles make it an ideal tree for children to decorate. Con: More expensive than other species.
More:
Why you should buy everyone the same present
7 hostess gifts you can buy in bulk
12 festive flats to wear to a holiday party
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