Which Type of Christmas Tree is Right For You?
Christmas Tree Selection
This page is here to offer you information that will make your Christmas tree selection as easy as possible. If you still can't decide, our lot attendants are friendly and helpful. We also have a lot of trees that are often not yet on display that our employees can help you find. Ask them to help find you the perfect tree!
Here’s a comparison of the needle retention, needle softness, and fragrance for each tree type:
1 Fraser Fir
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Needle Retention: Excellent – Fraser Fir is known for holding its needles very well, even in dry indoor conditions.
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Needle Softness: Moderate – The needles are firm but not too sharp, making it relatively easy to handle.
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Fragrance: Strong – It has a classic Christmas tree scent, though slightly less intense than Balsam.
2 Nordmann Fir
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Needle Retention: Excellent – Known for its long-lasting needle retention, the Nordmann Fir keeps its needles well, even as it dries.
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Needle Softness: Very Soft – The needles are soft to the touch, making it a good choice for households with children or pets.
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Fragrance: Mild – Nordmann Firs have a very subtle scent, suitable for those who prefer a less fragrant tree.
3 Noble Fir
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Needle Retention: Very Good – It has strong needle retention, making it one of the best choices for lasting freshness.
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Needle Softness: Moderate – Noble Fir needles are firm but not prickly, allowing for easy handling.
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Fragrance: Moderate – It has a pleasant, fresh scent, not overpowering but noticeable.
4 Douglas Fir
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Needle Retention: Good – Needle retention is decent but slightly lower than Fraser and Nordmann; regular watering helps maintain its freshness.
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Needle Softness: Soft – The needles are flexible and soft, which makes it gentle to touch.
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Fragrance: Strong – Known for a powerful, sweet pine scent that fills the room.
5 Balsam Fir
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Needle Retention: Moderate – Balsam Fir tends to shed needles more quickly than Frasers or Nordmanns, especially in drier climates.
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Needle Softness: Moderate – Needles are somewhat firm but not prickly, allowing for easy decorating.
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Fragrance: Very Strong – It’s one of the most fragrant Christmas trees, known for its distinctive, rich holiday scent.
6 Grand Fir
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Needle Retention: Fair – The Grand Fir may drop needles sooner than some firs, so it requires regular watering to stay fresh.
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Needle Softness: Very Soft – Its needles are soft and flexible, making it gentle to touch.
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Fragrance: Strong – It has a unique, citrusy scent that is refreshing and different from typical Christmas tree aromas.
7 Cook Fir
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Needle Retention: Low – The Cook Fir tends to drop needles fairly quickly, especially in warmer indoor settings.
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Needle Softness: Very Soft – Its needles are soft and pleasant to the touch.
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Fragrance: Moderate – It has a mild, earthy scent that is subtle but pleasant.
Overall Ranking Summary
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Needle Retention: Fraser Fir, Nordmann Fir, Noble Fir
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Needle Softness: Nordmann Fir, Grand Fir, Cook Fir
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Fragrance: Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, Grand Fir
If you’re looking for the best combination of needle retention, softness, and fragrance, Fraser Fir or Noble Fir trees are excellent choices. For a less fragrant but long-lasting and soft-needled option, go with the Nordmann Fir.
More Questions?
Just ask a Tree Towne employee! We are friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to help you!
See also Christmas Tree Care Tips.
Why do we get Christmas Trees every year? Here are the History and Folklore behind the annual tradition.
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1510, the first decorated Christmas Tree is in Riga, Latvia. Early Christmas Trees are decorated with paper, fruits, and sweets.
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1531, the first retail Christmas Tree lots are started in German cities.