An Arborist's Guide to Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree for Your Community Spaces
As a commercial property or community manager, you know that holiday decorations can transform a good space into a great one. While arborists typically spend their time on tree health and safety, the holiday season brings a festive twist: selecting and decorating the perfect Christmas tree for public spaces.
Choosing the right tree for a community area goes beyond simply picking one that looks nice. It involves understanding which trees can withstand the elements and support beautiful decorations safely. This guide offers an arborist's perspective on selecting the best tree varieties for your community and how to decorate them safely.
Key Factors for Selecting a Community Christmas Tree
Before we look at specific types, here are the main things to consider:
Needle Retention: How well does the tree hold its needles after being cut? This is crucial for maintaining a clean and attractive appearance in high-traffic areas.
Branch Strength: Can the branches support heavy commercial-grade lights and ornaments without drooping or breaking?
Fragrance: A pleasant scent can enhance the holiday atmosphere, but some communities may prefer a less fragrant option.
Top Christmas Tree Varieties for Public Spaces
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular Christmas tree varieties and how they perform in a commercial setting.
Fraser Fir
Often called the "Cadillac of Christmas trees," the Fraser fir is a premium choice for good reason. Its branches turn slightly upward, creating a classic, full shape perfect for showcasing decorations.
Needle Retention: Excellent. It holds its needles exceptionally well, even if watering is occasionally inconsistent.
Branch Strength: High. The sturdy branches have plenty of space between them, making it easy to hang large or heavy ornaments.
Best For: High-visibility areas where you need a durable, long-lasting tree that can handle heavy decorations.
Douglas Fir
One of the most popular Christmas trees in the U.S., the Douglas fir is known for its full, bushy appearance. Its soft needles grow all around the branch.
Needle Retention: Good, but it needs consistent water. If it dries out, it will shed needles quickly.
Branch Strength: Moderate. The flexible branches are best suited for lighter decorations like string lights.
Best For: Spaces where a lush, full look is desired and decorations will be minimal or lightweight.
Balsam Fir
The Balsam fir is a traditional favorite, especially in colder climates. It has a narrower shape, which can be ideal for smaller community rooms or lobbies.
Needle Retention: Good. It holds its needles well, though it’s slightly less resilient than the Fraser fir in warm, dry indoor spaces.
Branch Strength: Moderate. The branches can support standard ornaments, but heavier items may cause them to bend.
Best For: Indoor common areas where a strong, classic Christmas scent is desired.
Scotch Pine
The Scotch pine is an incredibly hardy tree. It holds its needles better than almost any other variety, even when dry.
Needle Retention: Excellent. The needles stay on the branches, minimizing mess.
Branch Strength: High. Its strong, stiff branches are perfect for heavy lights and ornaments.
Best For: Outdoor displays or communities looking for a low-maintenance tree that stands up well to the elements.
How to Decorate Outdoor Trees Safely
Decorating established trees in your landscape can create a beautiful holiday display. However, safety is key to protecting both your trees and your property.
Use Outdoor-Rated Lights: Only use lights and extension cords that are specifically rated for outdoor use to prevent electrical hazards. Look for UL (Underwriter Laboratories) certification.
Choose LED Lights: LEDs produce very little heat, reducing the risk of drying out or damaging tree branches and needles. They are also more energy-efficient.
Avoid Damaging the Bark: Do not use nails, screws, or staples to attach lights to the tree trunk or branches. These create wounds that can lead to disease or pest infestations. Instead, use plastic clips or gently wrap the light strings around the branches.
Distribute Weight Evenly: When hanging ornaments, spread them out to avoid putting too much stress on any single branch.
Don't Forget to Take Them Down: Remove all decorations promptly after the holiday season.
Maintaining Your Cut Tree
Proper care is essential to keep your community's Christmas tree looking fresh throughout the season.
Make a Fresh Cut: Before placing the tree in its stand, cut at least a half-inch off the bottom of the trunk. This reopens the tree's pores, allowing it to absorb water.
Water, Water, Water: A tree can absorb up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours. Check the water level daily and make sure the base of the trunk is always submerged.
Choose a Safe Location: Place the tree away from heat sources like vents, radiators, or fireplaces, as these will cause it to dry out faster.
By selecting the right tree and following these simple care and safety tips, you can create a stunning and safe holiday display that brings joy to your entire community.
Arbor MD Tree Care, Inc. specializes in year-round care of treescapes for community living communities, commercial properties, corporate campuses, and other shared spaces in the SF Bay Area, Sacramento, Southern California and Greater Seattle/Portland. Our certified arborists focus on safety, property value, and special PHC or Plant Healthcare, to ensure your trees remain healthy and your property retains value.