How to Get a Live Spruce Christmas Tree

When it comes to decking the halls for the holidays, choosing a Christmas tree is a cherished tradition. While artificial trees have gained popularity for their convenience, there’s something magical about a real spruce tree that artificial options simply can’t replicate. Real trees bring a delightful pine scent, authentic charm, and the feeling of nature into your home. However, selecting a real spruce tree also requires some planning and effort. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a real spruce tree—from understanding the benefits and challenges to harvesting one responsibly and choosing the perfect specimen for your home.

Benefits of a Real Christmas Tree

The Appeal of Real Trees

1. Natural Fragrance: Nothing beats the fresh pine scent of a real tree, which brings an authentic holiday ambiance into your home.
2. Sustainability: Real Christmas trees are a renewable resource, often grown on tree farms specifically for the season. Many farms replant for every tree harvested, ensuring long-term environmental benefits.
3. Biodegradable: Unlike artificial trees, real spruce trees are biodegradable and can be composted or repurposed after the holidays, making them an eco-friendly choice.
4. Tradition: Many families treasure the annual experience of picking out a tree together, whether at a tree farm or in the forest.

Challenges of Real Trees

1. Needle Shedding: Real trees can drop needles, especially as they dry out, requiring regular cleaning.
2. Pet Hazards: Cats and dogs may climb the tree, drink the water, or chew on branches, which can be dangerous to both the tree and the pet.
3. Short Lifespan: Real trees only last for about 4–6 weeks indoors before drying out. Proper care, including frequent watering, is essential.
4. Effort and Cost: Purchasing or harvesting a real tree takes more effort than simply unboxing an artificial one, and costs can vary depending on the source.

Where to Find a Real Christmas Tree

When deciding on a real spruce tree, there are several ways to procure one:

1. Tree Farms

Tree farms are one of the easiest and most popular options for finding a real Christmas tree. These farms are designed for sustainability, and their trees are grown specifically for the holiday season. You can select your desired tree, and many farms even offer the option to cut it down yourself. Visiting a tree farm can be a fun, family-friendly outing, often complete with hot cocoa, hayrides, and other seasonal activities.

2. Christmas Tree Permits for Public Lands

For a more adventurous approach, consider obtaining a permit to harvest a Christmas tree from National Forests or State Forest lands. Many government agencies, like the U.S. Forest Service, issue permits during the holiday season for a small fee.

• How It Works: Check online or at a ranger station for details on where to cut, as certain areas are designated for tree harvesting to ensure sustainable practices.
• Benefits: This method is often less expensive, provides access to a variety of tree species, and offers the thrill of hiking through the woods to find the perfect tree.
• Important Considerations: Ensure you follow the rules of the permit, such as cutting only within designated areas and avoiding trees near roadways or waterways.

3. Harvesting with Permission from a Private Landowner

If you have access to privately owned forested land, you might be able to cut your tree with the landowner’s permission. Family, friends, or neighbors who own property with spruce trees may allow you to harvest one. Be sure to confirm the land’s boundaries and ask for guidance on the healthiest trees to cut.

4. Pre-Cut Trees from Local Markets

While this method lacks the hands-on experience of cutting your own, many local vendors sell pre-cut trees sourced from regional farms. This option is convenient, especially if you’re short on time but still want a real tree.

How to Choose the Perfect Spruce Tree

Once you’ve found a source, it’s time to select your tree. Keep the following considerations in mind:

1. Size

• Measure Your Space: Before heading out, measure the height and width of the space where your tree will go. Don’t forget to account for the height of the tree stand and any topper you’ll add.
• Avoid Overwhelming the Room: A tree that’s too tall or wide for your space can look awkward and be difficult to decorate. Aim for a size that complements your room without dominating it.

2. Shape and Fullness

• Symmetry: A perfectly symmetrical tree may look more polished, but don’t dismiss slightly quirky trees—they can add character to your decorations.
• Fullness: Check for even branch density to ensure the tree will hold ornaments well. Gaps in the branches can sometimes be hidden with strategic decoration, but an overly sparse tree may lack the lush appearance you’re after.

3. Health and Freshness

• Check the Needles: Run your fingers along a branch. Fresh needles should be flexible and not easily fall off. If the needles are dry and brittle, the tree is past its prime.
• Inspect the Trunk: Ensure the trunk is straight and will fit securely in your tree stand.

4. Species Characteristics

Each type of spruce tree has unique traits. For example:

• Blue Spruce: Known for its silvery-blue needles and stiff branches, it’s great for heavy ornaments but can be prickly to handle.
• White Spruce: Popular for its full shape and dense branches, though its needles can give off a slightly unpleasant smell if crushed.
• Norway Spruce: A classic choice, though its needles may shed faster than other species.

Final Tips for Success

• Plan Ahead: Whether you’re visiting a tree farm or venturing into the forest, be prepared with tools (like a saw and gloves) and a way to secure the tree for transport.
• Care for Your Tree: Once home, cut an inch off the trunk and place the tree in water immediately. Keep it well-watered to maintain freshness throughout the season.
• Dispose Responsibly: After the holidays, check for local tree recycling programs. Many communities turn old trees into mulch or compost.

A real spruce tree adds natural beauty and holiday cheer to your home, creating memories that last a lifetime. With a little planning and effort, you’ll enjoy a festive centerpiece that embodies the spirit of the season.