How to Find the Perfect Artificial Christmas Tree

Artificial trees have come a long way from the wirey metal ones that our grandparents displayed. These days, you can hardly tell a faux from a real Fir.  There are many advantages to buying an artificial tree, including not having to constantly sweep up pine needles and not having to worry about your tree drying up or becoming brittle before the holidays are over. 

Santa.com is here to help you select a beautiful faux Christmas tree for your home, as well as offer you tips on style, size and decorations. 

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To Keep in Mind

Budget: Artificial trees may cost more upfront, but they’ll save you more in the long-run, as a good one will usually last for many years. The price tag on these trees can also vary significantly, depending on size, quality, material and whether they are flocked and pre-lit. It's best to set a budget on what is realistic for you, before starting to look at trees.

Space:  Artificial trees come in all shapes and sizes, so you are limited only by the size of the space it will occupy. If you want a twelve-foot tree and have the space, go for it!.  A pro tip is to save room for your topper when doing your measurements! Also - keep in mind that you will need a space to store the tree off-season. 

Features: Artificial trees come with many features, including lights embedded in the needles and branches and white flocking on the needles to simulate snow or frost. Other trees may come in fun colors such as pink, or gold and have decorations built in, like stars or snowflakes. Think about the look you want since, keeping in mind that you will have the tree for many years to come.

Branches: Hooked or Hinged? Branches on artificial trees are usually either hinged or hooked. Hinged branches are permanently attached to the tree, and can be folded when the tree is taken down for the season. Hooked branches are not permanently attached to the trunk, and instead, are hooked on when setting up and removed when taken down.

• Typically, hinged branches are found on higher-quality trees and are much easier to put up and take down. Also, you are less likely to lose pieces when it’s all attached. 

• Hook in branches generally are more time consuming to assemble. Trees with  hook-in branches can also come pre-lit and are usually less expensive. 

Selecting an Artificial Christmas Tree

Now you have your budget, size and an idea of the features you would like on your tree, the next step is to do some research. If realism is your goal, the best option is to visit a store where you can see the quality of the tree in person. 

If brick and mortar browsing isn’t for you, look for some inspiration on Pinterest, where you can find a variety of trees to help you decide your style. Online sites offering a wonderful selection of quality trees that will fit your space, style and budget include Balsam Hill and The National Tree Company, No matter what tree you choose to display in your home, what matters most is the memories you will create around it, celebrating Christmas with your family and friends.