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Every year we look forward to the moment when the home is scented with fresh needles and the lights on the tree are lit. But if you pick the wrong tree, joy is quickly replaced by falling needles, crooked branches and unnecessary expenses. That’s why we’ve prepared tried-and-true advice to help you choose a truly beautiful and fresh Christmas tree this year that will last until Epiphany.
Which species to choose: fir, spruce or pine?
Fir – a luxurious tree that lasts a long time
- doesn’t shed and withstands heat very well
- has dense branches and dark green needles
- needles are soft and not prickly
If you want a tree that looks beautiful throughout the holidays, the fir is ideal.
Spruce – the traditional scent of Christmas
- pronounced needle scent
- lower price
- dries out faster and needles fall off sooner
Spruce is beautiful, but it’s best to buy it only a few days before Christmas.
Pine – stays nicely full even in a warmer apartment
- the length of the needles gives the tree volume
- tolerates higher temperatures well
- pleasant mild scent
7 rules for choosing the right tree
- Check freshness – needles must not fall off when you run your hand over them.
- Pay attention to color – needles should be a rich green, not grayish.
- Look at the cut – a light and moist cut means freshness.
- Branches must be flexible – cracking is a sign of drying.
- Mind the dimensions – at home the tree will be wider and taller than outdoors.
- Buy spruce only shortly before Christmas Eve – it won’t last longer.
- Ask about the origin – the best are plantation-grown trees from Europe or the Czech Republic.
How to care for the tree after purchase
- re-cut 1–2 cm off the bottom of the trunk
- immediately place it in a stand with water
- top up the water daily – the tree drinks a lot
- keep away from heaters and the fireplace
- use LED lights, which heat up less
Firs typically last 4–6 weeks.
When is the best time to buy a tree?
| Type | Ideal time to buy |
|---|---|
| Fir | anytime during December |
| Pine | December 10–20 |
| Spruce | preferably at most a week before Christmas |
Real or artificial tree? Which is better
Real Christmas tree
- beautiful scent and natural appearance
- more eco-friendly if sourced properly
Artificial tree
- lasts for years and doesn’t shed needles
- won’t offer the scent or atmosphere of nature
Eco-friendly options after Christmas
- drop off at collection points for recycling
- use the wood chips in the garden
- plant a potted tree outside
Summary: How to choose the best tree
If you want a beautiful and long-lasting fresh Christmas tree:
- go for fresh specimens with a light-colored cut
- look for flexible branches and rich-colored needles
- choose the species according to conditions – fir leads for apartments, spruce smells wonderful outdoors, pine holds up great
This year you won’t be fooled and your tree will bring you joy throughout the holidays.
