real tree = real christmas
Abies fraseri
the holiday season brings with it a sense of warmth and togetherness. one of the most cherished traditions during this time of year is decorating the christmas tree. as we come together with our loved ones to trim the tree and hang ornaments, the choice of the tree itself plays a crucial role in setting the festive mood. artificial trees may have the advantage of convenience, but there is no replacement for the striking beauty and nostalgic aroma of a real christmas tree. pines, spruce and various evergreens are good options, but firs (genus Abies) are the strongest choices with the noblest being the fraser fir.
the fraser fir, a native of the appalachian region, has become synonymous with the holiday season. its deep green needles, pleasant fragrance, and symmetrical shape make it the quintessential choice for those seeking the ultimate christmas tree. but there's more to the fraser fir than meets the eye.
the gift of sustainability
artificial trees might seem like a convenient option, but they come with a significant environmental impact. made from non-renewable materials, they often end up in landfills, contributing to pollution and waste. in contrast, a fresh-cut fraser fir is a renewable resource. these trees are sustainably sourced from independent farmers who are invested in the long-term sustainability of their family farms and are planting thousands of new trees every year. for every tree cut down, farmers plant a new one, ensuring a continuous cycle of growth and sustainability. by choosing a real, fresh-cut fraser fir, you're supporting small businesses and local communities while making an environmentally friendly choice.
the life of a fraser fir
every tree starts its life as a seed from the cones of mature trees and planted in small nursery pots. as the seed matures into a sapling, it is planted directly in the field where it will spend an average of 7-10 years to grow to the perfect height for cutting. during this time, these trees are nurtured and cared for by local farmers in the picturesque mountains of north carolina. firs thrive in the cool elevations of the appalachian mountains, where the climate, high altitudes, and rich, well-drained soil provides the ideal conditions for their growth.
as the trees mature, they undergo the process of shearing several times. during this process, a farmer shapes each individual tree by hand ensuring a full and even growth and beautiful shape. in early november, the trees are tagged with ribbon by grade and height before they are then cut and shipped directly to us.
bringing the beauty home
choosing an artificial tree is typically as dull as it gets – a sterile process of searching online and adding one to your cart. you might even find one that’s pre-lit to save time and effort. the experience of selecting and decorating your fresh-cut fraser fir can be come a cherished family tradition. stroll through our holiday market to handpick the perfect tree with your loved ones. take your time to choose a tree that resonates with your holiday spirit. whether you prefer a tall and majestic specimen, a plump and full one, or a smaller tree adorned in a minimalistic style, the choice is yours.
care tips for a radiant christmas
once you've brought your fraser fir home, follow these care tips to keep it vibrant throughout the holiday season:
keep it hydrated: place your tree in a water stand and ensure it's well-watered. we provide a fresh cut at the base of the trunk before sending you on your way which helps the tree absorb water more effectively.
mind the heat: position your tree away from heat sources like radiators and fireplaces, as this can cause the tree to dry out more quickly.
light it up safely: save the family heirloom lights for the mantle and use led lights, which emit less heat and reduce the risk of drying out the tree.
embrace the fragrance: enjoy the natural fragrance of your fraser fir, which will fill your home with the delightful scent of the holiday season.
the beauty of the season is not only in the decorations but also in the choices we make. choosing a fresh-cut fraser fir is a statement of your commitment to sustainability and a celebration of the holiday spirit. visit our holiday market and embrace the elegance and eco-consciousness of a real christmas tree. create memories + traditions that will last a lifetime, year after year.
