When it gets colder outside, the first light in the Advent wreath is lit and the smell of cookies wafts through the home, it's time for the Christmas tree. It's worth taking a closer look before you buy so that the tree doesn't start needling on Christmas Eve or hang crookedly in the stand. Here you will find practical tips to help you find the right tree, keep it fresh and enjoy it for a long time.
Table of contents
Which Christmas tree is right for me?
When should you buy a Christmas tree?
What to look out for when buying a Christmas tree?
How does the Christmas tree stay fresh for a long time?
Cut your own Christmas tree or buy one?
Conclusion
Which Christmas tree is right for me?
Not all Christmas trees are the same. Each type of tree has its own characteristics that play a role when setting up, decorating and caring for it.
The Nordmann fir is the classic. Its needles are soft, deep green and hardly fall off - perfect if you want to put up your tree a little earlier. Its even growth also makes it ideal for heavy decorations or fairy lights. The disadvantage: it is usually the most expensive option.
The spruce is cheaper, has an intense, resinous scent and is the traditional Christmas tree in many regions. However, it loses needles more quickly, especially in dry heating air. If you only put it up a few days before Christmas Eve, it is still a good choice.
The blue spruce, on the other hand, stands out with its striking, bluish-green color. Its needles are firmer and prick more, making it more robust for heavy baubles - but you should wear gloves when decorating.
| Tree species | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Nordmann fir | Soft needles, long durability, even growth | Higher price |
| Norway spruce | Intense fragrance, low price | Needles faster |
| Blue spruce | Noble color, stable growth | Prickly needles |
So think about what is important to you: durability, fragrance, appearance or price. This will help you find exactly the type of tree that suits you.
When should you buy your Christmas tree?
Many people buy their Christmas tree at the beginning of December - but this is often too early. To ensure that it stays fresh for as long as possible and retains its needles, it's important to buy it at the right time.
The rule of thumb is:
- Nordmann fir: 2-3 weeks before Christmas
- Spruce and blue spruce: maximum 1 week before
It is also important to know when the tree was felled. You can recognize fresh trees by a light-coloured cut. If it is dark, dry or cracked, it was felled a long time ago - the needles are then usually no longer as durable.
If you buy your tree early, you should store it correctly. A shady, cool place outdoors is ideal, e.g. the balcony or the garden. Place the trunk in a bucket of water - this will keep the tree moist and prevent it from drying out. Wrap it in a net or cloth to protect it from the wind and sun.
Another tip: Many regional retailers or forestry companies provide information about the date of felling. This way you can be sure of the freshness and avoid trees that have been stored for weeks.
What to look out for when buying a Christmas tree?
It's worth taking a close look when buying a Christmas tree. A few simple tests will show you whether the tree is fresh:
- Check the needles: They should be shiny and look lush green. If you lightly stroke a branch and no needles fall off, the tree is fresh.
- Test branches: Fresh branches are elastic and spring back when you bend them.
- Check the cut surface: A light-colored, moist cut surface shows that the tree was recently cut.
- Check the tip: Straight, firm and undamaged - so the star won't hang crooked later.
The price also says something about the quality. On average, a Christmas tree costs 20 to 35 euros per running meter, depending on the tree species and region. A Nordmann fir is usually more expensive, but lasts longer.
Also pay attention to the size: the tree should end at least 30 cm below the ceiling. It's better to measure the room in advance before you stand at the market and find that the top is scratching the lamp.
How does the Christmas tree stay fresh for a long time?
A fresh tree is the be-all and end-all - but without proper care, even the most beautiful fir tree will dry out quickly. To keep your Christmas tree looking good into the New Year, three things are important: Water, temperature and location.
1. before setting up:
Store the tree in a cool place, e.g. on the balcony or in the cellar. Place it in a bucket of water so that the trunk does not dry out. Just before you bring it into the living room, cut about 1 cm off the end of the trunk. This will allow the tree to absorb the water better.
2. when setting up:
Use a tree stand with a water container. Water daily - large trees drink up to one liter of water per day. If it stands dry, the needles will fall off quickly.
3. location:
Do not place the tree directly next to a heater or fireplace, otherwise it will dry out. A cooler corner of the room with an even temperature is ideal. If you also moisten it lightly with a water sprayer after decorating, it will stay fresh even longer.
This will keep your Christmas tree stable, green and needle-proof - and you won't have to pull out the vacuum cleaner on the second national holiday.
Cut your own Christmas tree or buy one?
Some people swear by cutting their own Christmas tree. Not only is it a great experience with family or friends, it's also the safest option if you want freshness.
When you cut the tree yourself, you decide which tree goes into your living room. You can see the growth, check the needles directly on the tree and know exactly when it was felled. Many forestry companies offer fixed dates for this, often with bonfires, punch and small markets.
If you prefer to buy, there are several options:
| Place of purchase | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas tree market | Large selection, many sizes | Quality varies, often longer storage |
| Tree nursery or farm shop | Regional, freshly felled | Slightly higher prices |
| Online purchase | Convenient delivery to your doorstep | No inspection before purchase |
Important: Even when buying at the market or in a farm store, you can quickly recognize whether the tree is fresh with the tips on the cut and needle test.
Conclusion: How to find your perfect Christmas tree
- Tree species: Nordmann fir for a long shelf life, spruce for an intense fragrance.
- When to buy: As close to Christmas as possible.
- Quality: Shiny needles, elastic branches, light-colored surface.
- Care: Water the tree regularly, do not keep it too warm.
- Cut it yourself: Guaranteed fresh and a special experience.
With a little preparation, you will have a Christmas tree that not only looks good, but also lasts until the last day of the holidays.
