29 Nov Home Tip Of The Week: Picking The Perfect Tree
Thanksgiving has come and gone, so it’s time to start decking your halls with holiday decor! For many, the tree is the star of the show. We’ve come up with a few tips on picking the best one for your home and keeping it looking merry and bright all the way until Christmas!
Should I get a real tree or an artificial tree?
You may already know what you want to do, but we encourage you to consider all of the pros and cons before you decide.
For some, nothing compares to the real thing. A real tree provides you with that fresh pine smell and obviously has that natural look. Many families enjoy the tradition of going to the tree lot or farm to pick out their tree together, and you’re supporting local farmers in doing so. However, real trees do come with maintenance. They must be watered regularly and will drop needles on the floor. They also need to be transported from where you bought it to your home and again when you dispose of them at the end of the season. They can cost less than artificial trees, but it can add up since you have to buy one every year.
For others, artificial trees are ideal. They are more convenient since you can pull them out of the attic or garage, put them up, and count on them lasting and looking great year after year. Though they cost more than real trees, you save in the long run since they last for many years.
There’s no right answer…only what’s right for you and your family! Once you’ve decided what to go with, follow these tips to pick the right one.
Think about your space!
Decide where you’ll be putting up your tree and measure the space. Determine what height works for your ceiling, and don’t forget to account for any tree stand you’ll be putting it on as well as your tree topper. Also think about the width and shape of the tree; are you looking for tall and skinny, or short and wide?
Picking your real tree
- Each species is a little different. Do you prefer a pine or fir with soft needles or the look of a spruce? Find out more about the types here.
- Check for freshness. Crush the needles, and make sure they have a scent. Then grab a branch between your thumb and forefinger, gently clamp down and pull towards yourself. If you end up with a handful of needles, the tree is already past its prime.
- Ask for a freshly cut tree, or when you get home, make a fresh cut in the trunk of at least 1″.
Purchasing an artificial tree
- You have a few more decisions to make once you decide to go artificial:
- Will you get a pre-lit tree? This makes set up even easier, but you won’t be able to change the size or color of the lights from year to year. You’ll also need to think about swapping out burned-out bulbs over time.
- How about flocked or accented trees? Flocked trees look like they have been dusted with snow or glitter. Accented trees include elements such as pinecones and berries. These details can make the tree extra special, but if you like to change your decor each year, they may not be for you.
- The density or tip count indicates how full your fake tree looks. Evaluate the tree’s branches for sturdiness; if you have lots of ornaments, you want branches sturdy enough to hold them.
- Consider the warranty and what is included. Artificial trees should last up to 10 years. Some pre-lit trees come “continuous on” or “with burn-out protection.” Your tree should also be fire retardant and fade resistant.
We hope your holiday season is a fun and memorable one!
