SHOPPING FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE?

If you’ve decided to go with a live Christmas tree, you’re helping support the US tree economy and provide forestry for wildlife. But what’s the best Christmas tree type to get? Here are four top evergreen species.

1. NOBLE FIR

The noble fir is known for its longevity and beauty, and is often used not only for Christmas trees, but fresh wreaths. Its needles turn upward, which exposes the lower side of the branches and makes ornament hanging easy. It also has stiff branches that can hold heavier ornaments.

3. DOUGLAS FIR

Another popular US Christmas tree is the douglas fir. The branches are usually packed tightly together, and their needles fan out from the branches in all directions, which gives the tree a dense, full look. This type of tree is perfect if you want to keep things simple with flocking or lights. If you want to hang lots of ornaments, you might need a tree with more space between branches.

2. FRASER FIR

The fraser fir is one of the most popular species in the US. It has soft needles on sturdy branches with good spacing, which makes them easy to decorate. This species is often used as the White House indoor Christmas tree, and it’s known for being long lasting and looking fresh throughout the season.

4. COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE

The blue spruce is an unusual pick because of its bluegray color, so this is a great choice for a unique Christmas tree. It has sharp needles that are often used to stuff pine pillows. The tree has stiff branches that are great for hanging ornaments, and the blue spruce is known for being long lasting. But do be aware that when they’re crushed, the needles give off an unpleasant odor.