Find That Perfect Christmas Tree

by Andrea Woroch

Consider these tips for buying your Christmas tree.

1. Ask Where It Came From. Weeks may have passed since those trees were originally cut, so always ask the vendor where and when they buy their trees.
2. Check for Freshness. Is the tree green and healthy with a fragrant scent and moist, flexible needles? When you bounce it lightly on the ground, does it shower you with needles?
3. Weigh It. A heavy tree-proportionate to its size-means it contains a higher water content, and is therefore fresh.
4. Buy Locally Grown. You'll still want to give them the bounce test, but just the fact they were cut on-site means the trees are fresher.
5. Cut Your Own. It takes some effort and a good axe or saw, but there's a great deal of satisfaction in harvesting your own tree, from an approved location, of course. Finding just the right tree and tackling the job as part of a team also makes for a fun outing.
6. Buy Online. You can buy anything online these days. Companies like Christmas Trees Galore offer free shipping and you won't have to cart the tree home on top of your car. Check FreeShipping.org for delivery deals and while you're there, find free shipping offers on ornaments and other decorations.
7. Treat It Tenderly. Keep the tree outside in a shaded, cool place for a couple days, preferably standing in water. Before bringing it indoors, cut half an inch or so off the butt end to open up its pores, much as you would with cut roses. Once inside, remember to keep the tree stand topped up with water each day. 

Consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch has been featured among top news outlets such as Good Morning America, NBC's Today, CNNMoney and more.  [email protected]