Christmas tree FAQ

In the United States, the Fraser fir and Douglas fir are among the most popular. In much of Europe, the Nordmann fir is the top seller, with Norway spruce as the traditional choice.

With a fresh cut and daily watering, most real trees last about four to five weeks indoors. Firs and pines tend to last longer than spruces.

A typical 6–7 foot (about 2 m) tree takes roughly 7–10 years to grow, depending on species and climate. Some take as long as 15 years.

Most are grown on dedicated farms. In the U.S., leading states include Oregon, North Carolina, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Washington. Denmark, Germany and other European countries are major growers in Europe.

If the water level dropped below the base of the trunk, sap may have sealed the cut. Make a new fresh cut and refill the stand. Note that a tree drinks most heavily during its first few days.

Not necessarily. They are a renewable crop, and growers replant after harvest. Recycling or composting the tree afterward keeps its footprint low.

Fir, spruce and pine are considered mildly toxic: oils can irritate a pet's mouth and stomach, and needles can cause digestive problems. Tree water with fertilizer or bacteria can also upset a pet's stomach. Keep the stand covered.

The first known electric Christmas tree lights were displayed in 1882 by Edward H. Johnson, an associate of Thomas Edison. Before that, trees were lit with candles.

The topper usually represents the Star of Bethlehem or the angel who announced Jesus's birth in the Christian nativity story.

Only a living tree with intact roots (potted or balled-and-burlapped) can be replanted. A cut tree cannot regrow roots.