Picking the Perfect Christmas Tree

Why do we put up a Christmas tree each year? The history of Christmas trees dates back thousands of years to when pagan cultures would cut down evergreen trees in December and bring them inside their homes or temples to celebrate the winter solstice.

 

In the 17th century, German Christians began adopting the evergreens and Christmas decorations tradition. The tree as a symbol of Christmas spread through the rest of Europe and, by the late 18th century, had made its way to the New World in North America with German immigrants.

 

The first mention of Christmas trees in Canada was in Sorel, Quebec, on Christmas Eve 1781 by a local German family.

 

But it wasn’t until Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert, a German transplant, were featured in an issue of Illustrated London standing next to a Christmas tree with their family that they became popular with the public. Since then, revelers have been putting fresh-cut Christmas trees in their homes, town squares, and workplaces to celebrate the season.

 

Gone are the days of walking out into the middle of nowhere to cut down your own, like Clark Griswold in Christmas Vacation. “It’s not going in our yard, Russ, it’s going in our living room”.

Today, getting a fresh-cut or everlasting Christmas tree is as easy as a trip to your local Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre, where you can choose from a large selection that will add beauty and elegance to your Christmas décor.

 

Choosing between a fresh-cut or everlasting Christmas tree usually depends on what best suits your lifestyle. Here are 8 reasons to consider choosing a fresh-cut Christmas tree for your home.

• The Wonderful Smell of Christmas: Fresh-cut Christmas trees can fill your home with the fresh smell of the forest. Whether you choose a spruce, fir, or pine tree, you simply can’t beat the scent of a fresh-cut Christmas Tree in your home.
• Helping The Canadian Economy: One of the many benefits of purchasing a Canadian Sheridan Nurseries fresh cut tree, is that it supports tree farmers across the country. This contributes to growing the Canadian economy and providing jobs to growers across the nation.
• The Look of Christmas: Fresh-cut trees give your home an authentic look and feel. Fresh-cut trees offer a lush body of greenery throughout the holiday season. Your tree can last well into the new year with proper maintenance and care. If you are using fresh-cut Christmas trees for outdoor decor, it is crucial to follow winter protection tips to ensure the harsh elements don’t cause any damage.
• Environmental Benefits: It may be surprising to learn that choosing a fresh-cut Christmas tree can benefit the environment. Fresh-cut trees are biodegradable and sustainable, as waste can be used for mulch in the garden or other green spaces. Another bonus is fresh-cut trees are a renewable resource. This means they clean our water and air. They also play an essential role in providing habitat and food for wildlife. Choosing a fresh-cut Christmas tree ensures this delicate balance continues and reduces the amount of plastics and metals consumed during the holidays.
• No Need For Storage: Fresh-cut Christmas trees are perfect for people who need more storage space. Once the season is over, simply put your tree on the curb to be mulched by your local municipality.
• It’s A Great Holiday Family Tradition: Choosing a fresh-cut tree is the perfect way to bring your family together during the holidays. You can head to the nursery and choose your tree together while sharing memories from when you used to do the same with your family.
• Easily Fits Into Any Space: Fresh-cut trees can be easily trimmed to fit your space, so you can enjoy a nice full look. Most nurseries offer a variety of sizes, from tabletop to grand trees that will fill large living spaces. If you need to make a few adjustments, simply trim the trunk and branches to size. Use any cuttings as Christmas decor. Boughs always look great on mantles or the exterior of your home.
• Encouraging Reforestation: According to Statistics Canada, there are 28,315 hectares dedicated to fresh-cut Christmas trees. It takes up to 8 years for a Christmas tree to reach maturity, which means the earth gains countless years of environmental benefits from tree farms as they continually add new tree seedlings to their farms.

To get a long and healthy life out of your fresh-cut Christmas tree, it is essential to make sure you take care of it properly. This means regular maintenance and watering to ensure it doesn’t dry up, causing needles to drop. Follow these expert Sheridan tips to keep your tree looking great and smelling fresh all through Christmas:

• Trim the trunk before placing it in your stand and bringing it indoors to ensure it can access fresh water, this is an included service when you purchase at Sheridan Nurseries garden centers
• Water your tree regularly
• Keep away from heat that may cause it to dry out
• Use StaFresh® to help preserve your fresh-cut tree
• Mist your tree to help keep the branches moist. Remember to only do this when the tree is unplugged.

Fraser Fir – A favorite for its durability and perfect Christmas tree shape, the Fraser Fir offers many branches for ornaments while not occupying much space in your room due to its narrower profile.

Balsam Fir – You may have noticed your favorite candle featuring the Balsam Fir scent. This is because it is a true showstopper, with a nice full body and a beautiful classic Christmas tree fragrance.

Scots Pine – Say goodbye to pine needles all over the floor with the Scots Pine. This tree is hardy and holds onto its needles throughout the holiday season, from cutting to disposal, making it an excellent choice for people who want a no-fuss, no-mess tree.

While fresh-cut trees offer an authentic holiday look, the convenience and variety of everlasting trees cannot be overlooked. From dual lights to complementing natural elements, explore our premium selection of everlasting trees at Sheridan Nurseries’ eight garden centre locations. Embrace the holiday spirit with a tree that aligns with your style and preferences, ensuring a festive and visually captivating celebration.

From the ancient practices of pagan cultures to the festive customs of German Christians, the Christmas tree has evolved into a symbol of joy and togetherness. Whether you opt for the authentic charm of a fresh-cut tree, filling your home with the scent of the forest, or embrace the convenience and variety of everlasting trees, the essence of the tradition remains. Each tree, adorned with lights and memories, becomes a testament to the enduring spirit of the holiday season. As you select your Christmas tree, may you find a festive centrepiece and a living symbol of tradition, nature, and the joy that echoes through the ages. Happy decorating!