Everything worth knowing about Christmas trees
A plain-language guide to the evergreens we bring indoors each December — which species to pick, how to keep one fresh, where the tradition came from, and how to make a sustainable choice.
Start here
Tree types
Fraser, balsam, noble, Douglas fir, spruces, pines and cypress — how they differ in scent, needles and sturdiness.
Choosing & care
How to test freshness, measure your space, set up the stand, water correctly and stay fire-safe.
History
From winter evergreens and German guild trees to Queen Victoria, electric lights and city trees.
Real vs artificial
The environmental trade-offs, cost, convenience, and what to do with a tree after the holidays.
What makes a good Christmas tree?
A good Christmas tree combines needle retention (it stays green and doesn't shed), branch strength (it holds ornaments), a pleasing shape (usually a cone with even density), and, for many people, fragrance. Firs such as the Fraser fir score well on all four, which is why they are among the most popular choices in North America. In Europe, the Nordmann fir plays a similar role.
Quick answers
- When should I buy a real tree?
- Many families buy in late November or early December. A well-watered fresh tree typically stays attractive for about four to five weeks.
- How much water does a tree need?
- A common rule is about 1 quart (roughly 1 liter) of water per inch of trunk diameter per day, especially in the first week. Check the stand daily.
- Which tree has the best scent?
- Balsam fir, Fraser fir, and white (concolor) fir are known for strong, pleasant fragrance. Leyland cypress has almost none.