There’s nothing like the fresh scent of pine and the cozy charm of a live Christmas tree. For many Charlottesville families, choosing the right tree is more than just a holiday errand—it’s a cherished tradition. With these tips from local experts you can make caring for your live Christmas tree eay this year.
“As a family, the Christmas tree is all about tradition,” says Patty C. Rodgers, owner of Campbell-Rodgers Lumber, which is hosting their inaugural Lumberjack Christmas Experience in North Garden in 2024. “Choosing the tree together, bringing it into the home, and displaying handmade ornaments—it’s an experience that warms my heart. It’s about making memories we’ll cherish for years to come.”
Charlottesville offers plenty of ways to celebrate this holiday tradition, from established favorites to new experiences like the LumberJack Christmas Experience. There’s even a sustainable way to close out the season with local tree recycling programs. Charlottesville has everything within reach to make the most of your holiday centerpiece.
How To Choose The Best Variety of Fresh Christmas Tree
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or picking out your first live tree, paying attention to a tree’s needles is a crucial first step, according to John Carroll, forester, co-owner, and manager of Claybrooke Farm LLC in Mineral.
“When choosing a real tree at a tree lot or store make sure it is fresh and is not losing needles or turning brown,” Carroll advises.
Every Christmas tree variety has its own special charm, so how do you choose the right one? Here’s a quick guide to some popular options you will find at farms and tree lots in Central Virginia this season:
Fraser Fir
With strong branches and soft, dark green needles that have a silvery shimmer underneath, the Fraser Fir is a decorator’s dream. Plus, it holds onto its needles longer.
Douglas Fir
Love the classic Christmas tree scent? The Douglas Fir’s soft, full needles and festive fragrance make it a favorite.
Blue Spruce
Make a statement with the striking blue-green tones of a Blue Spruce. Just keep in mind that its sharp needles can be a safety concern for families with young children and pets.
Balsam Fir
If you’re after the quintessential Christmas look and scent, the Balsam Fir delivers. Its soft needles and perfect festive shape are especially great for homes with little ones.
How to Care for Your Live Christmas Tree
Once you’ve found the perfect tree, proper care is key to keeping it fresh throughout the season. Carroll highlights the importance of water and proper storage.
“Make sure you put it in water when you get home,” Carroll says. “Store it, if not putting it up right away, in a cool spot out of the sun and wind,” Carroll recommends. “A properly cared for tree should last a month or more inside your home.”
Here are a few more expert tips to help your tree thrive:
1. Start by Trimming the Trunk
Saw about half an inch off the bottom of the trunk before placing it in water. This helps the tree efficiently drink up the water in your tree stand, keeping it fresh longer.
2. Choose the Best Spot
This may not be easy—there is only so much space in a house—but think about traffic flow. Make sure you can easily water the tree, and if it is near a blowing air vent, angle the air away from the tree so it doesn’t get dry.
2. Keep It Hydrated
Choose a stand that holds at least a gallon of water. Refill it every day to keep your tree happy and hydrated. “Don’t wait until the water has evaporated. When you do this, the tree closes up,” Rodges advises. “Monitor for needle drop. If the tree starts dropping needles excessively, it may need more water.”
4. Stay Away from Heat
Heat can quickly dry out the needles, leaving your tree looking sad and wilted. Avoid placing it near heat vents, fireplaces or radiators. Opt for LED lights, as they produce less heat than traditional bulbs and help your tree stay green longer.
Safety Tips for a Live Christmas Tree with Kids
Live trees are a magical addition to the holidays, and with a little extra care, your real tree can stay safe and festive with kids around all season long!
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Anchor the Tree
Secure your tree to the wall or ceiling with a fishing line to prevent it from tipping if kids bump into or tug on the branches.
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Go Shatterproof
Choose unbreakable ornaments and hang fragile decorations higher up. Felt or wooden ornaments are great kid-friendly options.
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Cover the Tree Stand
Wrap the stand with a decorative basket or tree skirt to keep little hands (and curious pets) out. Even plain water can spill and create a mess.
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Keep It Tidy
Pine needles can be sharp and pose a choking hazard for children and pets. Try to keep the area around the tree tidy by vacuuming or sweeping regularly.
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Choose Soft-Needle Trees
Families with young children should stick with soft-needle trees like Fraser or Balsam Fir. Their needles are gentler on little hands.
Going Green: Opt for Sustainability This Holiday!
Thinking about sustainability while picking your Christmas tree? Great news—there are a few things you can do to keep your festive tree eco-friendly!
Shop locally by choosing a tree from a nearby farm to reduce your carbon footprint and support local growers. After the holidays, take advantage of Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s free tree recycling programs, which turn used trees into mulch. Alternatively, consider using a living tree. Opt for a potted tree that you can plant in your yard after the holidays, or rent a living tree from a sustainable farm, where you can return it for replanting and care until next year.
“Christmas trees are a sustainable resource since they clean the air, and the farms are usually on land that’s unsuitable for other crops. Plus, they’re easy to recycle,” Rodgers adds. “Part of the beauty of a live Christmas tree is the amazing scent that fills your home!”
Discover even more family fun for the holidays in our guide to Charlottesville’s best holiday activities, Santa visits, volunteering ideas, day trips to see Christmas lights, the 2024 gift guide for kids, and tips for maintaining beautiful blooming poinsettias!
AMANDA DANAHER is a guest editor. Born in sunny San Diego, Amanda has spent her life traveling the U.S., moving more than 22 times before finally settling in Lexington, Virginia with her husband and five children. She holds a journalism degree from Western Carolina University and brings over 16 years of experience in media, including roles as a freelance writer and editor for parenting publications, virtual assistant, and social media manager. For a time, she even homeschooled her children and started her own bakery! Today, she embraces the small-town life in Lexington, writing about topics that resonate with parents and families in the community.
