When choosing from the forest of Christmas tree options, here are some questions to ask before beginning the search:

·      Is it going up immediately? If not, keep the tree outside in the shade in water, still trussed up with its string and in the preservative solution until ready to bring it indoors.

·      Where is it going in the house? Is there enough room? Remember, trees will look smaller outside than in the home.

·      Is the room cool? Trees last longer in rooms with no direct heat blowing on them from air vents or fireplaces. Whenever possible, ensure the tree is out of direct sunlight.

·      Does the tree usually go in a corner? Then a less-than-perfect tree with a hole in the back could work out just fine. Most trees will have a more sparsely branched area from the side that was north-facing. Give the tree a shake. Some needles dropping, mostly brown, is perfectly okay.

·      Is there a properly sized stand? Some trees such as Nobles can get very wide very quickly at the base.

·      Is there enough space for decorations? Sometimes a Noble fir or a tree with more open branching is best.

Some favorites are Nordmann, Noble and Fraser firs this year. Each tree variety has distinctive qualities. The Nordmann fir is favored by many because of its attractive foliage, with needles that are not sharp and do not drop readily when the tree dries out.

Noble firs attain the largest dimensions of any of the true fir species. A high-altitude tree, it is a highly popular Christmas tree known for its keepability. The Burton Blue is a distinctive, blue-colored variation on the Noble fir.

The Fraser fir is widely used as a Christmas tree. Its fragrance, appearance, strong twigs and ability to retain soft needles for a long time when cut (and do not prick easily when hanging ornaments) make it an excellent choice.

After making a selection, have a fresh cut make before taking it home. The best way to ensure the tree stays as fresh and green as possible can is to ensure the tree base is always in water with a tree preservative added. The tree will draw up water much faster during the first two or three days, so check the level every day, topping it off as needed.

Rusty Allen is education manager at North Haven Gardens. For more information call 214-363-5316 or visit nhg.com.