How to Choose The Right Real Christmas Tree – What to Look Out For

Selecting a living Christmas tree is one of the most classic Christmas traditions from around the world. Choosing the right Christmas tree can set the scene for your entire Christmas season. With this in mind, it’s important to make the right choice when you come to select the perfect tree for you. There are several things that you should look out for when purchasing a real Christmas tree.

Below, interior design expert Ryan McDonough at MyJobQuote.co.uk has teamed up with several home décor experts, Christmas tree specialists and plant care experts to create this ultimate guide on everything you need to consider when choosing the right real Christmas tree. So, if you're planning on purchasing a real tree this year, keep these tips in mind so you can make sure you find a tree that fits in perfectly with your requirements, and that will last throughout the entire festive season.

Look at The Needles

One of the first things you need to do when selecting your perfect real Christmas tree is look at the needles. “Look for a tree with vibrant green needles that are soft and pliable rather than dry and brittle. You can test this by running your hand along the branches - if they feel sharp or prickly, it's likely not a fresh tree," explains Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture.

Mike Millerson, founder of Survive Nature, also agrees, "In terms of freshness, check for a healthy, green appearance with flexible, not brittle, needles. A fresh tree will retain its needles longer and is less of a fire hazard.” Millerson also suggests a method for checking for fresh needles. “To test this, you can gently grab the inside of a branch and pull your hand toward you. Very few needles should come off in your hand if the tree is fresh. Also, check the cut at the base - if it's turning brown, the tree is not fresh.”

Consider The Size

Before going Christmas tree shopping, it’s important to consider the size of the Christmas tree that you’ll be looking for. “The biggest mistake people make is choosing a tree that is too large for their space", explains Amanda Werner, a Christmas tree farmer at Werner Tree Farm. "It's important to measure the height and width of where you want your tree to go. It's okay to do this by holding your hand up over your head as long as you know how high over your head your hand is. If you use a tape measure, bring it with you to the farm," Werner suggests.

Werner also suggests that "Some farms will have measuring sticks, but it never hurts to be prepared. Trees almost always look smaller outside than they do in your room. Measuring before buying will make sure you don't have to chop off part of that beautiful tree you picked at the lot.”

Billy Parker, director of GiftDelivery.co.uk, also agrees, "You should think about the size of the tree and the space you have available. If you have a small area, then a smaller tree may be more suitable. You should also consider the shape and colour of the tree. If you have a modern home, then a slim tree with a bright colour may be more suitable.” Don’t forget that you will need to also measure the width of your space as a fuller tree may be too big for the space that you have.

Check For The Scent

“Another important factor to consider is the fragrance of the tree," says Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture. “A real Christmas tree should have a distinct, pleasant scent that fills the room." So, this is something that you can look out for when selecting the right tree for you. When you go to select your tree, give it a quick sniff to make sure it has a nice, fresh scent.

“If you don't notice any fragrance, it's possible the tree has been sitting for too long and is not as fresh", Michalowski adds. The more scent that you can get from sniffing the tree, the fresher it is likely to be.

Consider The Longevity and Needle Retention

“The longevity and needle retention of your Christmas tree are critical factors in maintaining its appearance and reducing the hassle of needle clean-up", explains Eric Lam, founder of Exploding Ideas. "Certain tree species are renowned for their excellent needle retention, such as the Douglas Fir or Scotch Pine. These trees are less likely to shed needles, keeping your home tidier.”

Lam also adds, “To prolong your tree's freshness, ensure regular watering. Keeping the tree's water reservoir filled helps it absorb moisture, preventing premature drying. Furthermore, position the tree away from heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight to minimize needle loss. By adhering to these practices, you'll extend the life and visual appeal of your Christmas tree, creating a more enjoyable and stress-free holiday season.”

Choose a Symmetrical Shape

“Selecting a Christmas tree with a symmetrical shape and evenly distributed branches is pivotal to elevating the overall aesthetic of your holiday display," says Edward Reay, owner of Build Fanatic. “An asymmetrical tree not only exudes a harmonious and balanced look but also simplifies the decorating process.”

“When your tree possesses a well-proportioned form, ornaments and lights hang evenly, creating a more polished appearance. It's also easier to achieve a balanced and visually pleasing arrangement of decorations," Reay explains.

“Additionally, a symmetrical tree tends to be more structurally sound, ensuring that it can bear the weight of ornaments without leaning or becoming lopsided. Prioritizing symmetry enhances the visual appeal and ensures your tree becomes the centrepiece of holiday joy," Reay adds.

Check The Trunk

Additionally, it is very important to check the trunk of the tree to ensure it is fresh and to make sure it is fit to last the entire Christmas season. “The trunk should have a slightly sticky feel, indicating sap production and freshness", explains Aaditya Bhatta, founder of PlantsCraze.

By choosing the right trunk, you can ensure that your Christmas tree is perfectly fresh. The fresher the tree is, the longer it is likely to last and, let’s face it, we all want a tree that is going to last for the entire season and beyond.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are several things that you can look out for when selecting the perfect Christmas tree. By following these tips next time you pick out your perfect Christmas tree, you can ensure that you find a tree that looks amazing and will continue to look amazing throughout the entire Christmas season.

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