OPH Good Housekeeping – Choosing Christmas Trees

Choosing Christmas Trees – Read our guide to make your choice of tree an easier one

OPH Good Housekeeping – Choosing Christmas Trees

Species Of Christmas Trees

Frasir Fir

popular in America but relatively new to the UK. The needles are deep green with a blue/grey underside, flat and soft, therefore a favourite in homes that have children. This species also has good needle retention.
More to follow...
Noble Fir

Often classed as 'THE' Christmas tree because of its popularity. This species is rather heavy due to the need to trim to gain fullness and shape. The soft blue/green needles have excellent retention.
Norway Spruce

often referred to as 'the original Christmas Tree whose beauty requires nurturing. This species has poor needle retention and for this reason it is frequently used for outside displays.
Nordman Fir

All Nordman firs have dark green glossy needles, dense foliage and full bushes branches right down to the tips. With excellent needle retention they are firm favourites. They do however vary in standard and are often classified as gold, silver or bronze.

Artificial Christmas Tree

The artificial Christmas tree is easily available, doesn't require treatment and can be assembled at a moments notice. For these reasons alone it is a popular favourite in many homes.

Buying And Selecting Your Christmas Tree

Christmas Trees can be purchased at a many locations, all of which are perfectly acceptable. The main thing to look for is freshness.

A quick checklist to help you select your Christmas tree

Does it appear green and healthy?
Does it smell fragrant?
Are the needles moist and flexible?
Bounce the tree gently on its cut end. If this produces more than a shower of needles then look elsewhere.
Make sure the tree will fit into the location selected.
Check there is sufficient space between the base and the lower branches to allow you to make that all important 1" diagonal cut to aid water absorption.
Miniature lights that produce low heat help to prevent the tree from drying out.
Remove your tree after Christmas or when it dries out.

Buying a Christmas tree either online or in particular, by telephone can be quite daunting. It is useful to have an idea of the types of trees available. Below is a selection of tree types to help you on your way:

Thanks for checking out our OPH Good Housekeeping choosing Christmas trees page.
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