Selecting, cutting, and hauling in your own Christmas tree can be a wonderful family experience, and make the tree seem just that much more special. You don't need to be a woodsman to do it, either.

Begin by determining where you are going to go to get the tree. In some areas, tree farms are set up for exactly this purpose, while in others, entities such as the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, or companies like Wayerhauser have designated Christmas tree cutting areas. In most cases, they will furnish you with a map, which eliminates the guesswork.

Next, decide on the type of tree you want. Traditionally, Christmas trees are usually firs, but this isn't the only kind of tree that is available. Many times, in a relatively small area, there may be several kinds of fir, pines, and even hemlocks. Knowing what kind of tree you want before you go out can save considerable time once you get there.

Decide on the size of the tree you want, but be realistic about it. A house with 12-foot ceilings and a lot of space can handle a 10 foot tree with little problem, but a small apartment would probably do far better with one that is closer to 4 feet tall.

Now you are ready to go get the tree. Make sure that you bring a cutting implement. My preference is to use a chainsaw, handsaw, and pruning saw, but your preference and availability of the tool may be different. Don't forget to bring gloves. You'll be glad you did. Also, if you are going out into poor weather, particularly in snowy areas, be sure to bring a thermos of hot chocolate.

Once you get to the area, the first step is to locate the tree that you want. Ideally, you want one that is fairly bushy and even all the way around. Nicer trees will usually be found further away from the road.

When you select the tree, cut it a little longer than what you want it to be in the house. For instance, if you want a 6-foot tree, cut the tree a little over 7 feet from the top to where you cut it. You will be making a second final cut before putting the tree up, and this gives you room to work with. It also means that it is okay to cut at an angle if you must.

When it has been cut, drag the tree back to the car, pickup, or whatever transportation you have. It should be pulled by the base rather than the tip, which helps prevent breakage of limbs.

After you get it home, make the final cut, to make the tree the height you want it and to level the cut so that the tree will stand straight. It may be necessary to remove the bottom two or three branches so it will fit in the stand, but the branches can then be used in wreaths, or even as a spay to hang on the door. As a tip, though, make sure that the tree is sitting in water to which a few aspirin have been added. This keeps the needles moist to lessen fire danger. (If you can run your hand over a branch and needles fall easily, they are too dry.)

Once mounted and in the house, decorate the tree, and sit back to enjoy your handiwork, as the tree permeates the house with wonderful aromas. A Christmas tree can be a cornerstone of the holiday festivities and can very much influence the atmosphere of the occasion. Getting the tree yourself can further enhance the mood.

Merry Christmas, everybody!

Learn more about this author, Rex Trulove.
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