xmas tree - fresh or fake?

GarethAustin · Posted: Sun Dec 03, 2006 4:05 pm Post subject: xmas tree - fresh or fake?

Well all the irish Gardeners out there, the age old question at this time of year:-

Christmas tree fresh or artificial?

Also whats your favourite type?

mdvaden · Posted: Tue Dec 12, 2006 7:55 am Post subject: Re: xmas tree - fresh or fake?

What kind of trees do you use there the most?

Are there many commecial Chrismas tree farms?

Our state, Oregon, is probably in the top growing states here.

Mainly Douglas Fir and Noble Fir: a few Grand fir. Only the last two are Abies or true fir.

We went with artificial for the past 3 years and won't do that anymore. It's real ones for now on. I prefer the un-sheared more open and layered look, because I like the ornaments to hang down free, rather than just get stuffed into a hedge.

GPI · Posted: Tue Dec 12, 2006 12:24 pm Post subject: Real Christmas Trees in Ireland

Here in Ireland we grow and use mainly 3 types of conifer for Christmas trees.

The Noble fir (Abies procera) which originally came from the Pacific North West of the USA.
It is symmetrical in shape with dense blue-green needles that expel a lovely pine fragrance. The needle-holding qualities of this Christmas tree are excellent even when let to dry out slightly.

The Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta), which originated in the North West of the USA.
This tree is aptly named having been used to build the Native American lodges.
It also has a lovely pine scent and good needle retention qualities but is more conical in shape than the Noble Fir.

Finally we grow and use the Norway spruce (Picea abies) which is the traditional Christmas tree but the increased use of the previous two species due to superior needle holding capabilities have relegated it to third place recently.

foamcutter · Hawthorn Tree Joined: 30 Oct 2006 Posts: 82

1 real one ( to bought and decorated at the weekend)
I love the smell in the room with the real tree, its the families favourite.

1 miniture real tree came predecorated with lights etc about 24" high
My wife wants to plant it out in the new year ???

1 artificial tree & lots of polystyrene trees kicking around that the kids have and painted & decorated over the years.

Sb · Posted: Tue Dec 12, 2006 10:14 pm Post subject: Fake christmas tree

Fake for me Im afraid. I just cant put up with all the needles everywhere

birdie · Posted: Fri Dec 15, 2006 2:39 pm Post subject:

I have and always will have a real tree at Xmas. I absolutely love the fresh pine smell of a real tree.