Oh, Christmas Tree! Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Tree

There’s nothing quite like the moment you find the Christmas tree... the one that fills your home with that unmistakable evergreen scent and becomes the backdrop to a month of memories. Our fresh-cut Christmas trees have just arrived at B&K, and each variety has its own charm, from fragrance and shape to needle retention and colour. To help you choose the right one (and keep it looking great), we’ve put together a simple guide to the types we carry this year, what makes each special, and a few easy care tips to make your tree last as long as possible.

Christmas Tree Varieties Available This Season

Douglas Fir

Look: Full, traditional silhouette with soft, deep-green needles.

Scent: Classic sweet evergreen fragrance.

Needle Retention: Good with consistent watering.

Why Choose It: If you want that nostalgic “old-fashioned Christmas tree” feel with great fragrance, Douglas is a beautiful

choice, and often one of the best values.

Noble Fir

Look: Strong tiered branches, blue-green needles, and a stately, elegant shape.

Scent: Fresh and mildly sweet.

Needle Retention: Excellent, one of the longest-lasting trees.

Why Choose It: Nobles are premium trees known for sturdy branches (great for heavier ornaments) and a gorgeous layered look. A favourite for long-lasting display.

Grand Fir

Look: Lush, full, soft needles with a beautiful, deep green colour.

Scent: One of the strongest and most fragrant trees; big “Christmas smell” impact.

Needle Retention: Moderate to good with proper watering.

Why Choose It: If you love strong scent and a soft, full appearance, Grand Fir is a showstopper and one of the most aromatic options.

Fraser Fir

Look: Narrower, more compact shape with glossy dark-green needles and silvery undersides.

Scent: Fresh, crisp, and subtly citrusy.

Needle Retention: Excellent - very low shed.

Why Choose It: Frasers are incredibly long-lasting, symmetrical, and perfect for smaller spaces or for those who want a low-maintenance, high-freshness tree.

Nordmann Fir

Look: Dark, glossy needles with a smooth, elegant shape and minimal shedding.

Scent: Very mild, ideal for scent-sensitive households.

Needle Retention: Outstanding - one of the longest-lasting trees available.

Why Choose It: A great choice for people who want a clean, modern look and exceptional longevity without the strong scent of other firs.

How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh All Season Long

A few simple habits make a big difference:

1. Make a fresh cut: Before placing your tree in its stand, cut about ½–1 inch off the base. This opens the pores so the tree can drink again.

2. Get it in water immediately: A tree can seal over within hours; the sooner it's in water, the better.

3. Keep the stand full: Trees drink far more than most people expect — often 1–2 litres per day in the first week. Never let the stand run dry, or the base can reseal.

4. Choose the right spot: Keep your tree away from direct heat vents, fireplaces, sunny windows, and space heaters. Cooler areas = better longevity.

5. No fancy additives needed: Plain water works best. Additives, sugar, aspirin, etc. aren’t necessary.

How to Store Your Tree Outside Until You’re Ready

If you want the best selection but aren’t ready to decorate yet, no problem - storing your tree outdoors is easy and keeps it fresh. Simply keep it outside in a cool, shaded area, ideally in a bucket of water. Make a fresh cut again before bringing it indoors. If it's been more than 3-4 hours since the last cut, trim another 1/2 inch off the base before placing it in your stand.

We receive one shipment only each year, and once certain sizes or varieties are gone, they’re gone. Shopping early ensures you get the tree you want - and storing it outside keeps it fresh until you’re ready!

Bringing Home The Perfect Tree Starts Here

There’s a certain kind of magic in finding “the one” - the tree that somehow feels meant for your home. Our team is always happy to guide you through the varieties, share care tips, and help you choose the tree that will glow in your living room all season long.

Stop by and see us Monday to Saturday, 9–5, from now through December 20th, and we’d love to help you find the perfect Christmas tree.