articles

5 Tips for Hunting for the Perfect Christmas Tree

By Kimberly Vees, Reading PA Publisher November 26, 2015


This past weekend, our family took a trip to cut down our Christmas tree. The past few years we have visited a nursery/tree farm and purchased a pre-cut tree but in the spirit of my “homemade/unplugged” Christmas, I thought we would go back to the tradition of cutting it down. I must say I was not disappointed. Though the weather wasn’t the best, we had a fun time! We sang Christmas carols as we ventured out into the forest and the kids even played hide and seek amongst the trees. We fought, lovingly of course, over which was the perfect tree, changed our minds at least 10 times, much to my husband's dismay, and then, of course, made him do all the work cutting it down.

If you have not gotten your tree yet, I really suggest that you give it a try to visit a tree farm to cut your own at least once! To help you out, here are a few tips and suggestions.

1) WEAR YOUR SNOW OR RAINBOOTS!  Though it was not snowing or raining the day that we went, it had rained earlier in the week and the ground was extremely muddy. We have gone in years that there was snow on the ground and years that it was sunny and beautiful, but it never fails the ground is always wet and muddy so wear your boots!

2) DRESS WARMLY.  It may not be cold by your house, but be sure it is going to be colder on the farm.

3) DON’T BE FOOLED BY SIZE.  The trees always look smaller in the field than they really are. Measure the space you have for your tree at home and take a measuring tape with you. Most tree farms have a measuring stick they can give you to take on your trek.
                       
4) BRING PROPER EQUIPMENT.  Most tree farms have hand saws and twine but if you are planning on cutting down a larger tree, a chainsaw might be a good thing to bring with. Also, bungee cords to tie the tree down for the ride home are a good idea!

5) IT WILL TAKE LONGER THAN YOU THINK.  Plan on spending at least two hours at the farm. First you have to find the perfect tree (this is always the longest part for our family), then cut it down and drag it back. Next you need to get it drilled, shaken and wrapped, paid for and tied to the car. There is usually a stand for hot chocolate and goodies and many farms even have wagon rides and activities for the kids. If you are smart, plan on making the tree getting and trimming a day long event and so no one is disappointed!

If you haven’t gone to get your tree yet, and are considering cutting your own down, I think these tips will help you. It is a wonderful time and a great family experience!