by L.S. Watts

Created on: December 14, 2010

According to the National Christmas Tree Association, there are about twenty-five to thirty million live Christmas trees sold each and every Christmas season. Even still, there are around three hundred and fifty million trees being grown around the United States on Christmas tree farms. But which trees are more popular than others?

Firs are some of the most popular choices for live Christmas trees. They are strong and airy which are perfect for people who have collected tons of ornaments over the years.  Firs are also more expensive than the other variety of trees used for Christmas. There are several fir trees to choose from.

Fraser Firs are the most popular type of tree used when it comes to a live Christmas tree. In fact, it is a favorite typically used at the White House. It grows up to 80-feet and typically has a cone shape. The diameter on this tree is roughly 1.5 feet. Strong branches which point upward and flat, dark green needles perfect for heavier ornaments. The scent of the tree is very pleasant and if kept well watered, it will keep that aroma throughout your home.

Douglas Firs have been quite popular in the Northwest since the 1920s. The tree is a thick cone shape with dark green or dark blue-green needles. The branches are very strong and therefore great to adorn heavier ornament. However if the tree has been sheared for the perfect cone shape, it is suggested you bring an ornament with you to test the strength of the tips. It is also the less expensive tree in the line of firs used during the Christmas season.

Canaan Fir is a relatively new tree that has become popular over the years. It is more popularly used in Virginia, West Virginia, Maine and Eastern Canada. It has a wonder aroma and is quite the sturdy tree lasting more than four to five weeks. In fact, it is the most popular tree in the Ohio area. It has twice as many needles as a traditional Balsam Fir. Needle shedding is very minimal. Although not as strong as a Scotch Pine, you can still use semi-heavy ornaments. Again, consider bringing an ornament to test its strength.

Noble Firs are sometimes referred to as “the Cadillac of Christmas trees”. It has strong branches and space to display your ornaments. It has dark green upturned needles which are great for hanging ornaments. Branches tend to have the layered look which is great for decorating the perfect tree.

Grand Firs are beautiful trees originating in the Pacific Northwest. Their needles are dark green with silver

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