Along with other decorative Christmas items such as wreaths and
garlands, having a Christmas tree in your home is very essential in
creating a special atmosphere for the season. It is believed that
Christmas trees have been available for sale in America since the
1800s, which is about the same time that the former Woolworth’s
department store started selling ready-made ornaments for Christmas trees.

Choosing the right type of Christmas tree is important because
Christmas trees are often a focal point for many family activities and
traditions. Given the many types of Christmas trees that are available, it is important to think about how the tree will be used. While a tall tree may look very elegant, it may not be suitable if there aren’t many adults around who can reach the tree’s heights. And a very short tree may be dwarfed by other furniture in the room. It’s therefore very important to carefully consider and get a tree that has a suitable height and also one that has sturdy branches to hold heavy ornaments.

Among Christmas trees there are certain types that are
always favorites and which are bestsellers. These include: Douglas,
Fraser, Noble and Balsam firs, and Scotch, Virginia and white pine
trees.

These evergreen trees all have all have one or more excellent
features related to shape, color or sheen and fragrance, which makes them favorites for Christmas trees. The most favorite Christmas trees basically have a pyramid or cone shape. A pyramid-shaped tree is likely taller and has somewhat of an elegant look. Douglas Fir, which ranks first among Christmas tree favorites, is an example of a pyramid-shaped tree. Other examples are Fraser, Balsam and Noble firs.

A cone shape tree tends to be short with dense branches, which makes them excellent for holding many ornaments and other decorations. Families that have a strong tradition of making their own ornaments, or putting mementos on Christmas trees may consider a cone-shaped tree. Virginia and Scotch Pines, Norway Spruce and the Eastern White Pine all have cone shapes.

Another feature that makes Christmas trees appealing is their
color. While all trees have a green appearance, a closer look at their
needles will reveal differences such as a bright or dark-green, blue-
green or yellowish-green hue. The needles may also emit a silvery sheen with the right lighting. Fraser and Noble firs both have needles with a silvery sheen, and the branches of both trees are also used for garlands and wreaths.

Most people choose a fresh Christmas tree for its fragrance,
which can be fairly strong or just subtle, giving off just enough of a
whiff of scent. Douglas Fir, which is the most popular Christmas tree
in homes and public places, is a very fragrant tree. The Balsam fir is
also fairly fragrant. The Eastern White Pine is however, a tree that
doesn’t have much fragrance.

Whether you have a favorite type of Christmas tree or will choose
one from its appearance, there are many choices to satisfy the desire to have a fragrant and well-decorated tree for Christmas.