The holiday season is upon us, and for many, that means embracing the time worn tradition of choosing the perfect tree to decorate your home. While artificial trees have their appeal, there's something special about the authenticity and fragrance of a real Christmas tree that fills the air with festive cheer.

However, choosing the ideal real Christmas tree can be a task filled with excitement and a touch of challenge. If you're new to the real tree world, here are some of our favorite tips for finding the perfect tree.

1: Understanding the Types of Trees 

Across the US, you can find over 35 different types of Christmas trees growing. But when it comes to picking the perfect tree there are a few species that are chosen most. Here are some of our favorite: 

Balsam Fir - Known best for their scent, Balsam Fir trees have a conical shape and soft needles. 

Fraser Fir - Similar to Balsam Fir, but more compact due to the shape of its upturned branches. This is the tree most used for the White House Christmases.

Blue Spruce - With stiff branches and sharp needles, this tree is known for its beautiful blue/silver coloring.

White Pine - White pine is great for a natural look with long flexible needles. It’s also great for people with sensitive noses having almost no fragrance.  

Scotch Pine - Dark in color with sturdy branches, this tree has fantastic needle retention meaning minimal mess. 

2: Picking the Perfect Shape 

From Classic and pear shaped to tall and thin, Christmas trees come in a wide variety of shapes to fit every home and decor styles needs. 

Images courtesy of The Real Christmas Tree Board  realchristmastreeboard.com

Classic: 

Balsam Fir 

Scotch Pine 

Wide: 

Douglas Fir 

Blue Spruce

Thin: 

Monterey Pine 

Arizona Cypress 

3: The Best for Decoration

The best part after picking out your tree is putting all the decorations on. Some species of tree are more suited for heavy ornaments than others, here are some of our favorites. 

Fraser Fir - Known to be one of the best for heavy ornaments, with stiff branches and good needle retention. 

Blue Spruce - Great for hanging ornaments but little fingers beware of sharp needles!

Scottish Pine - Excellent needle retention and sturdy branches good for hanging heavy and light ornaments.