It’s tree time: How to pick a fresh Christmas tree
It’s that time of year again. If you decided to go real instead of artificial, there are a few things you need to know.
Pick a fresh one
All trees will lose some needles. Shake tree firmly. If large amounts fall off, the tree might not be that fresh. On firs the branches should be flexible.
Make a fresh cut
Remove bottom branches and cut at least one inch off base of trunk.
Get it in water
Get the tree in water as soon as possible before the trunk scabs over. Add nothing to the water.
A look at some popular varieties: Douglas Fir
These soft needles are dark-green or blue-green in color and are approximately 1 - 1 ½ inches in length. The Douglas fir needles radiate in all directions from the branch. When crushed, these needles have a sweet fragrance. They are one of the top Christmas tree choices in the U.S.
Balsam fir
This tree exhibits a relatively dense, dark-green, pyramidal crown with a slender spire-like tip. On lower branches needles generally occur as two-ranked (two rows along sides of the branch), 3/4 - 1 1/2 inches long, spreading and not crowded. The needles tend to be shorter and curved upward.
Nordmann fir
This tree has a unique appearance from other Christmas tree species. With their thick, symmetrically arranged branches Nordmann fir are perfect for displaying heavy ornaments. The dark green needles are short and smooth, and are covered in a waxy cuticle that prevents water loss.
Fraser fir
Fraser fir is a uniform, pyramid-shaped tree. Strong branches are turned slightly upward, which gives the tree a compact appearance. Needles are flattened and dark-green with a medial groove on the upper side and two broad silvery-white bands on the lower surface.
Most Popular
Feel like a good movie? People are buzzing about these new releases. Stay in tonight and stream one of this week's most popular movies.
Movie critic Bruce Miller says “Marriage Story” is a powerful film and will figure into every end of the year film discussion. The film “Dark …
Looking for a relaxing activity for this weekend? Why not treat yourself with a good movie?
Movie critic Bruce Miller calls the mystery film "Knives Out" a clever, stylish thriller, and says "Queen and Slim" twists and turns on a chas…
Movie critic Bruce Miller says "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" is a warm film that may be nominated for best picture. Elsa's search for …
Feel like a good movie? People are buzzing about these new releases. Stay in tonight and stream one of this week's most popular movies.
Feel like a good movie? People are buzzing about these new releases. Stay in tonight and stream one of this week's most popular movies.