How To Choose A Christmas Tree

Whatever decorating plans you have for your Christmas tree, a good tree is of prime importance.

What makes a good tree? Consider these six basic points: 1) needles that do not drop readily; 2) good green color; 3) symmetrical shape with full bottom branches and a good top; 4) branches stiff enough to support lights; 5) good pine aroma.

What kind of a tree is best? Ninety percent of the Christmas trees sold are either balsam fir, Douglas fir, black spruce, Eastern red cedar, white spruce, Scotch pine, Southern pine, white fir or Norway spruce. In the East balsam, Douglas fir, white spruce and Scotch pine are the most popular. In the Mid-South long-needled pine is the favorite and in the far West firs and cypress are predominant.

As firs make the best trees and are most common, learn how to recognize them. Examine the needles. They are flat and spaced out along the stems, not in clusters. When the needles are pulled off they leave smooth, oval scars.

Spruce, most easily confused with fir, is widely sold. It is not good indoors as it sheds rapidly. Recognize it by the prickly needles which arc square in cross section and leave small projecting stumps when pulled from the main stem.

Size is the next consideration. Know the height of your room so you won't purchase an oversized tree.

To assure freshness, check before buying by bouncing the butt end of the tree on the ground. If needles fall reject it. When you get home cut a 1-inch diagonal slice from the stump and peel back the bark. Place in a pail of cold water and add a cup of sugar. Keep outdoors and sprinkle branches each day with water until you bring it indoors just like caring for heliconia.

Fireproofing is a safeguard. No completely fireproof material is known, but there are sprays and applications on the market. Check with your local garden center for more information.