NO CHAINSAWS ALLOWED.

The Concolor Fir, also know as a White Fir, has been steadily gaining popularity as a Christmas tree in recent years.  Native to western United States, this conifer exhibits a blue-green color, with longer needles than most other Fir trees.  The needles remain on the tree long after cutting.  The needles have a fragrant scent, often described as citrus or orange-like.  

Needle retention: Excellent

Frasier Fir is a uniformly pyramid-shaped tree.  Leaves (needles) are flattened and dark-green.  The combination of form, needle retention, dark blue-green color, strong branches, and pleasant scent has let to Frasier Fir being a most popular Christmas tree.

Needle retention:  Outstanding

This is a popular Christmas tree due to the glossy dark green needles which are longer, broader and have a slight curve to the boughs.  May not be ideal for heavy ornaments.  It does have a very fragrant scent sure to last the season.

Needle retention:  Excellent

Norway Spruce is a large evergreen in which the leaves (needles) are 12-24mm long and quadrangular in cross section (not flattened).  They have strong upwardly slanted branches ideal for heavy ornaments.  They are also very fragrant.

Needle retention:  Good

Usually less bushy than a Norway Spruce, with softer needles.  The Serbian Spruce has a more dainty and delicate branches and therefore may not be suitable for heavy ornaments.  Suitable for moderately heavy to light ornaments.

Needle retention: Good

If your tree has been cut 8 hours or more before being given water, make a fresh cut about 1/2 inche off the bottom.  This will remove the dried sap that has sealed the pores and allow your tree to drink.

Avoid using a stand that is to small and requires whittling the tree down.  The outer layers are most efficient at absorbing water.

Place the tree in water as soon as possible.  Most trees can go 6-8 hours after cutting and still take up water.    Check the water daily.

Use lights that emit a low amount of heat, such as LED or miniature lights.  This will reduce drying the tree.  Additionally, don't overload your tree with lights and turn them off when you're not at home or at bedtime.

Fireplaces, vents, direct sunlight, heaters and such can be a fire hazard as well as drying out your tree more quickly.  

All of the above tips will help keep your tree fresher longer.  However, it will eventually dry out.  Once the tree is very dry, it's time to remove it from your house.  Never burn your tree in wood stoves.