Tree Types

Our trees come from Canada and Wisconsin.  We have 4 types of trees on the lot (plus wreaths, boughs, and tree bags). Don’t worry if this is too much to read – we can help you during your visit to the lot!

Scotch Pine – is the most commonly used, the ‘traditional’ Christmas tree, usually sheared very pyramidal in shape.  It’s long (1-3”) needles are dark to bluish green, and are very stiff, able to hold ornaments easily.  Scotch Pines are very good keepers – they resist drying and can hold their needles up to 4 weeks.  They are slightly less fragrant than Balsam Firs

Fraser Fir – has a uniform pyramid shape, with short (1”) needles that are dark green on top, silvery underneath.  The needles are softer than Pine needles and thicker than those of Balsams.  Fraser Firs have excellent needle retention, some fragrance, and firm branches that can hold heavier ornaments.  Fraser Firs are considered the ‘Cadillac’ of Christmas trees.

Balsam Fir – has a pyramid shape with a spire like tip (good for tree toppers).  Its needles are short, with rounded ends, dark green with a lighter underside.   Balsams have good needle retention and flexible branches that are not as able to hold heavier ornaments as the Fraser.  The Balsam is very fragrant – its resin is used in perfumes, and was once sold as chewing gum.

Canaan Fir – a newer variety, is a genetic cross between Fraser  and Balsam Firs and has the best characteristics of both.  It combines the better needle retention of the Fraser with the stronger fragrance of the Balsam.  The needles are more uniformly green than the Fraser, with less silver on the undersides

For more information on trees, check out this link!

Email us at treelot@deerfieldoptimist.org