Choosing the best real Christmas tree for your home is easier when you know what you're looking for. The right tree depends on your space, decorating style and whether scent or needle retention is most important to you.
Read on to discover some of the key features and differences between the most common real Christmas tree types.
Preparation is key
Before you head out to choose your tree, measure the height of your room so you know what size to look for. Remember to leave space for your tree stand (which will need a good-sized water reservoir) and any stars or tree toppers. It's also worth thinking about the size and weight of your decorations, as some trees have stronger branches than others.
Choose a Norway spruce if...
... you love the traditional look, scent and feel of Christmas.
Norway spruces are often considered the most traditional Christmas tree. They have:
- a wonderful shape with lots of branches, making them a good choice for hanging a range of decorations.
- a lovely festive scent that fills the room.
- needles that are a little sharp and spiky to touch.
A Norway spruce is a great option if that evocative pine scent is high on your wish list.
It’s best to buy your Norway spruce closer to Christmas, as it can lose its needles quickly once brought indoors. To help your spruce keep its needles for longer, keep it away from the radiator and water it every day.
Choose a Nordmann fir if...
... you want excellent needle retention and strong branches for heavier decorations.
This type of Christmas tree is the most popular in Europe. It has:
- an even shape with soft foliage, making it a joy to decorate.
- glossy, dark green needles that have a whitish-blue underside.
- strong branches, which are great for hanging those bigger decorations.
Its soft needles make the Nordmann fir a popular choice for families. And if you suffer from allergies, the needles have an added barrier of a thick waxy coating.
Choose a lodgepole pine if...
... you have a larger room or high ceilings and want a tree with plenty of character.
Lodgepole pine Christmas trees love big spaces. They have:
- a bushy appearance and wonderful pine scent.
- a beautiful display of branches that point upwards.
- luscious long, green needles that don't shed quickly.
You might get lucky when picking a lodgepole pine - some come with cones still attached, providing natural decoration straight from the heart of the forest.
Find your perfect real Christmas tree
Whichever Christmas tree you choose, make sure you're getting a high-quality product. By choosing a tree from one of our Christmas tree sale sites, you're not only taking home a beautiful real Christmas tree, but can also turn your visit into a winter forest adventure.
Enjoy the sights, sounds and fresh air of the forest while you find the perfect tree to take home. And most importantly, enjoy the beautiful colour and the scent of your tree this Christmas. Follow our tree care tips to keep it looking fresh for as long as possible.
