Now that the Halloween candy has officially been pushed aside, it’s time to start thinking about your holiday decor. And most importantly, the Christmas tree! If you’re sick of using the same artificial tree for the last few years and dream of having that real, natural and fresh smell of spruce wafting through your home, here are a few tips to guide you in picking the perfect natural Christmas tree this year.
Measure the Height
Before you embark on your hunt for the perfect tree, you first need to make sure that whichever one you choose will actually fit in your home. Whatever room you’re planning to place the tree in, measure the height of the ceiling. Once you’re done with the tape measure, take it with you. You’ll need to measure the tree before selecting it to ensure it’s at least one foot shorter than the ceiling. Also, be sure that whatever height you choose, you have a way to get it home or have it delivered!
Make Sure It’s Fresh
Of course, you don’t want to make all that effort searching for the perfect tree only to have it shed and die before Christmas Day. To help determine how fresh it is, all you need to do is run your fingers along the needles of the tree and give it a decent shake. If you notice that a good amount of needles fall off, move along to the next one. It you notice very little fall, you’ve got a fresh one!
Trim and Straighten the Base
If you’re selecting a tree that’s already cut, ask for an inch to be trimmed off of the base before you strap it to the car. This will allow water to be absorbed into the tree more easily. It’s also important to have the base cut straight, with at least six inches remaining to make sure it will fit into your tree stand.
Water It ASAP
As soon as you get that tree home, the first thing you need to do (after squeezing it through the front door) is water it. With that fresh cut base, watering it thereafter will help prevent a barrier layer from growing over it which can hinder the ability to absorb water.
Bring the beauty, magic and fresh scent of Christmas home this year by ditching the artificial tree and opting for au natural. Use these tips to help guide you in finding the perfect tree that will light up your home for the holidays!