Which Type of Real Christmas Tree Is the Best?
Real Christmas trees are grown on tree farms throughout the country and then sold at Christmas tree lots like Sandhill Christmas Trees. The type of real Christmas trees you find at a tree lot or a tree farm depends on the part of the country you’re in and where the farm is, with some choices reflecting regional preferences and native varieties. Some tree types grow better in certain parts of the country. Some trees hold moisture better and some are more fragrant than others.
When you’re buying a Christmas tree, there are a few characteristics that you’ll definitely want in a real tree to make sure it’s healthy and fragrant for your holiday celebration. Below are a few common real Christmas tree types commonly found at tree lots like Sandhill Christmas Trees.
Excellent Christmas Tree Varieties: Fir Trees
Fraser Fir
The Fraser fir is the best type of Christmas tree. It has strong branches, soft needles, excellent water retention, and is hearty and resilient. Fraser firs are the safest choice when it comes to finding a strong, fresh tree that will last until Christmas.
Natively from the Appalachian mountains, Fraser fir trees grow excellently in the cool, sandy soils of Wisconsin, where Sandhill Christmas Trees are grown. They have a distinctive silver-blue underside of the needles and the branches are strong and durable.
Balsam Fir
The next best type of Christmas tree is the balsam fir. Balsams are more fragrant than most Christmas trees, have a softer needle, and more feathered appearance. They are hearty and have strong branches for ornaments. Balsam firs do require more attention to watering than the Fraser fir.
Balsam fir trees are natively from the Northern Midwest and Canada and prefer the cold winters of the region. They have a sweet-smelling sap that covers the bark in small blisters. Be careful to wear gloves if you’re handling a balsam fir.
Concolor Fir
The concolor fir is a unique and pleasant choice for a real Christmas tree. Concolor firs have a softer, fluffier appearance that at first may be mistaken for a pine tree. Concolor firs are one of the most fragrant trees, releasing a citrus scent when the needles are crushed or when hot water is added to the tree stand. Their branches are not as strong as the Fraser or balsam firs.
Concolor firs are native to the Rocky Mountains of the Western United States and can be occasionally found as a street tree in urban areas. They are also known as the white fir.
Average Christmas Tree Varieties: Spruce Trees
Colorado Blue Spruce
The Colorado blue spruce is one of the most visually striking Christmas tree options, known for its vibrant blue-gray needle color that creates a stunning contrast in any room. However, its stiff, sharp needles make it difficult to handle and touch while putting up ornaments. Spruce trees generally are not as resilient as fir trees and require much more consistent watering to ensure survival.
Native to the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado blue spruce thrives in dry, well-drained soils and cold climates.
Norway Spruce
The Norway spruce is a classic choice for a traditional look. Norway spruce trees feature long, slender needles that give it a bushy appearance. While its branches are not as strong as the fir varieties, it can still support lighter ornaments.
Native to Europe, the Norway spruce thrives in cooler climates and is known for its fast growth. It requires more attention to watering, as its needle retention can be shorter compared to fir trees.
Poor Christmas Tree Varieties: Pine Trees
White Pine
The white pine is a native tree to the Midwest and can be a traditional choice for a real Christmas tree. The white pine has long, flexible needles that give it a thin, feathery appearance. Its branches are much weaker compared to other species, making it suited for only the lightest ornaments.
Native to the northeastern United States and Canada, the white pine thrives in cold climates and mixed forests.
Scots Pine
The Scots pine, also known as the Scotch pine, was once a popular Christmas tree variety known for its sturdy, thick branches. Scots pines are difficult to come across from their susceptibility to pest and diseases. The foliage of Scots pine tends to be more sparse and uneven compared to other species, leaving noticeable gaps in its overall shape.
Originally from Europe and grown in the United States, the Scots pine is falling out of favor for tree growers and customers alike due to its many issues in cultivation and appearance in the home.
Find the Best Real Christmas Trees
Generally, fir trees are the best type of real Christmas tree to purchase. They’re fragrant, long-lasting, and have durable, flexible branches. Fir trees also generally do not require vigilant watering and can survive well past Christmas. While spruce and pine trees can be found at many tree lots and Christmas tree farms, they are not always the best option. Should price and budget be a consideration, these two tree varieties can still provide a centerpiece for a lovely holiday.
If you’re looking for the best real Christmas trees for your holiday celebration, fir trees are the trees for you. Sandhill Christmas Trees in Oak Park, IL, sells fir trees, handmade wreaths, and fresh garland. Visit us at 1117 Chicago Avenue in Oak Park, IL, to see which tree in our selection is the best for your home and holiday.