Each year as the holidays approach, people begin to think about decorations and festivities, including trimming their Christmas tree. For those who will trim a tree for the first time, the task might seem slightly overwhelming. For others who have many years experience, it might feel like time to simplify and streamline the process. In either case, these tips will help them trim and decorate their tree to perfection.
Types of Christmas Trees
While artificial trees wax and wane in popularity, natural Christmas trees have long retained a special place in the holiday traditions of many families. Five major types of trees are used as Christmas trees:
- Fir (dark green-blue green)
- Pine (bright green)
- Spruce (bluish-gray)
- Cypress (dark green-gray)
- Cedar (dark shiny green)
These are all evergreen trees with species found throughout the world, especially the Northern Hemisphere. The most popular species or varieties include the Douglas Fir, Scotch Pine, Colorado Blue Spruce and Leyland Cypress. For those who enjoy aromatic Christmas trees, fir trees are the best choice.
Many families purchase their trees from home improvement stores or roadside tree vendors. However, in rural and suburban areas, many others continue to visit tree farms where they can select and cut their own tree.
Preparing a Tree for Trimming
Prior to beginning the more exciting parts of trimming a tree, a few other details must be taken care of. Before bringing a tree indoors, make certain that the outdoor temperatures has dipped below freezing at least once to reduce the likelihood of bringing bugs and insects into the home. In warmer climates, applying an unscented bug spray and then waiting twelve to twenty-four hours may be a sufficient substitute.
After the tree comes inside, it should be mounted in an appropriately sized tree stand and mounted near where it will be displayed. Moving and shifting a bare tree is far easier than a decorated one. When positioning the tree for best effect, facing the nicest side of the tree towards the room can make a big difference in how it looks after trimming.
For trees that are five to six feet tall, a small step-stool may prove useful. For those over six feet tall, a step ladder is recommended for safety and for achieving the best overall result. This is especially the case if a tree topper, such as a star or angel, will be used, as they can be difficult to position and secure otherwise.
How to Trim a Christmas Tree
Many people choose to begin with lights in order to hide the wires most handily among the boughs. Always check for fraying wires while stringing lights as these can represent a serious fire hazard. In most cases, it is easier to begin at the top and work downward.
For those who prefer to use garland, apply it next, also beginning at the top and working downward. After the garland has been hung on the tree, take a step back to make sure both the lights and garland are evenly applied and look good. Adjustments should be made prior to hanging ornaments and decorations, which come next.
Many people choose themes or color schemes for their Christmas tree. In recent years, bright white, various shades of red and rich purple have all been prominent colors for creating a tree with a monochromatic look. Silver and gold are usually added as accents, although copper and bronze are becoming less unusual Christmas colors.
Popular themes include snowflakes/snowmen, Santa Claus and religious themes, including angels. Many of these themes can be conveyed through choice of colors and decorations for the tree.
Hanging ornaments can be time consuming. However, for those using a long-standing collection of family ornaments, this is also a great time to reminisce about previous years and to enjoy each other’s company.
After this step, it is advisable to take another big-picture look at the tree and decide if everything looks right. The tree should only need a few minor adjustments and perhaps a tree skirt before it is ready for its big holiday debut.
Don’t forget to water the tree to keep it looking great through the holiday season!
Photo courtesy of North Carolina State University