Choose the best artificial tree for you

What to look for when choosing the perfect artificial Christmas tree

If Christmas had a single centerpiece moment,

it would surely be the tree. It’s the piece de resistance for your holiday décor, the hub of gathering and gift giving. The tree is a pretty big deal. We like the idea of a fresh tree and that inimitable pine smell as much the next person, but when you factor in the watering, the mess, not to mention the time and money you spend hunting for the perfect specimen at the tree farm, it’s not hard to see why so many are turning to artificial trees. But with all the choices out there, how can you ensure you’re choosing the best? Here’s our breakdown of what to look for and look out for when choosing yours.

1. MATERIAL

For the most realistic-looking branches and needles, it all comes down to material. King of Christmas, one of the largest online retailers of artificial trees uses a combination of PE-PVC materials. PVC “branches” make the tree easy to shape and manipulate, while molded PE needles give the realistic branch tip a smooth look and feel.

2. SPACING AND DENSITY

Look for an even and full distribution of branches and lots of them. This not only looks more realistic, but it also helps camouflage the metal trunk and base that most often is what makes a fake tree look fake. And don’t just count the branches, make sure that each branch is loaded with branch tips.

3. COLORING

Whether you opt for a flocked style or an allover green, take color into consideration. While in general medium green looks more authentic than a bright, vivid green, you should also factor in the species that the style is modeled on. King of Christmas offers everything from Cypress, Fraser fir and Douglas fir to the more exotic Scarlett fir, and each is colored appropriately.

4. EASY SET UP

Artificial trees are supposed to make your life easier, so look for a model that is easy to use.

Look for a tree that comes in segments so it’s easier to move and set up. King of Christmas makes hinged models so the branches look more natural without the need to do a lot of shaping. FOR MORE ON HOW TO PROPERLY CHOOSE AND SET UP YOUR

ARTIFICIAL TREE, GO TO KINGOFCHRISTMAS.COM.