Choosing and Caring for Your Real North Carolina Christmas Tree

Selecting the perfect Christmas tree is a holiday tradition that brings families together year after year. In North Carolina, that tradition has deep roots, literally. Christmas trees are grown in nearly every county, and the beloved Fraser firs from the state’s mountains are shipped across the nation each winter. Whether you’re visiting a local choose-and-cut farm or picking one up at a retail lot, knowing how to choose and care for your tree ensures it stays beautiful and fragrant throughout the season.

Picking the Right Size

Before heading out to buy your tree, measure the space where it will be displayed. Be sure to factor in the height of the stand and any topper or ornaments. Most people overestimate the amount of room they have, which often results in a tree that’s too tall or wide. If your tree will sit in a corner, you might save money by choosing one with two “good” sides. For a centerpiece viewable from all angles, go with a premium-grade tree.

Cut Tree or Living Tree?

Cut trees are the traditional favorite, but living (balled-and-burlapped) Christmas trees let you replant your tree after the holidays—creating a lasting memory in your yard. If you choose a living tree, select a species suited to your climate, keep it well-watered, display it for no more than 10 days indoors, and avoid overheating the room. With proper care, your Christmas tree can thrive long after the season ends.

Where to Buy

You can find real trees at local choose-and-cut farms, retail garden centers, and civic or charitable lots. Visiting a local tree farm not only guarantees freshness but also supports North Carolina’s family-owned forestry operations. Retail lots, meanwhile, may offer greater convenience and a wider variety of species. Either way, look for trees with flexible needles, vibrant color, and a fresh, piney aroma—signs of good health and proper care.

Common North Carolina Christmas Tree Species

• Fraser Fir:
  Known as the “Cadillac of Christmas trees,” Fraser firs make up over 96% of North Carolina’s Christmas tree production. With strong branches, soft needles, rich green color, and a signature fragrance, Fraser firs hold ornaments well and retain needles for weeks when properly watered.
• White Pine:
  White pines have soft, long needles and a full conical shape. Their pliable branches make them perfect for lighter ornaments, garland, and greenery like wreaths or roping.
• Virginia Pine:
  A popular choice on choose-and-cut farms, Virginia pine has short, twisted needles and a rich pine scent. Its sturdy limbs can easily support heavier decorations.
• Eastern Red Cedar:
  The traditional southern favorite, red cedar has dense sprays of aromatic foliage and a nostalgic charm. It dries more quickly than fir or pine, so consistent watering is key.
• Leyland Cypress:
  With bright green feathery branches, Leyland cypress trees offer a modern, elegant look. They don’t hold heavy ornaments well but make up for it with their full shape and pleasant color.
• Arizona Cypress:
  Featuring silvery-blue foliage and a subtle citrus scent, Arizona cypress is gaining popularity across the Piedmont and Coastal Plain. Varieties such as Carolina Sapphire and Blue Ice bring a unique tone to holiday décor.

Why Choose a Real Tree?

According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, real trees are the environmentally responsible choice. They’re grown on American family farms, support rural economies, and are 100% renewable and recyclable. Each acre of Christmas trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people daily—and for every tree harvested, another is planted. After the holidays, trees can be recycled into mulch, used for erosion control, or even placed in ponds to create fish habitats.

Artificial trees, by contrast, are typically made overseas from non-renewable plastics and metals. Most end up in landfills after just a few years of use and are not biodegradable. Choosing a real tree helps reduce waste, support local farmers, and keep your celebration rooted in sustainability.

Keep It Fresh

Once home, cut an inch from the base of your tree before placing it in water. Keep it away from direct heat sources and refill the stand daily—fresh trees can absorb up to a gallon of water in 24 hours. A well-watered tree stays safer, holds its needles longer, and fills your home with that unmistakable holiday fragrance.

The Tradition Lives On

From the misty mountains of western North Carolina to the coastal plains, real Christmas trees symbolize more than just holiday cheer—they represent generations of families, farmers, and foresters who keep this tradition alive. Whether you’re picking out your first Fraser fir or planting a living tree for the future, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a real North Carolina Christmas tree.