What does a balsam Christmas tree look like?
First described in 1768, balsam fir is a medium-sized tree generally reaching 40-60 feet in height and 1-1 1/2 feet in diameter. It exhibits a relatively dense, dark-green, pyramidal crown with a slender spire-like tip.
What is the difference between Fraser and Balsam Christmas trees?
The Balsam is a more traditional choice for a Christmas tree, since it naturally grows in this area. Balsams grow faster meaning their branch strength is less than a Fraser, however Balsams are often “fuller”, with more, closer growing branches. Unlike the Fraser, Balsams have “soft” needles.
What is a balsam Christmas tree?
The balsam fir is a native evergreen well-adapted to the cold climates of the northern United States and Canada. Its symmetrical spire-like crown, shining dark green color, and spicy fragrance have made it a favorite Christmas tree for hundreds of years.
What’s the difference between a balsam and a Fraser fir?
The main difference between the Fraser fir and the balsam fir is the construction of their pinecones. The bracts, specialized leaves associated with the tree’s reproduction, are longer than the scales on a Fraser fir pinecone, which makes them curve downward.
What kind of Christmas tree lasts the longest?
Fraser Fir
Great for strength: The strongest branch award goes to the Noble Fir. It’s strong, stiff branches will hold up even the heaviest of ornaments. Longest lasting: The longest-lasting tree (if you take care of it!) is the Fraser Fir.
Where do balsam trees grow?
Balsam fir grows best in the eastern part of its range in southeastern Canada and the Northeastern United States. This area is characterized by cool temperatures and abundant moisture.
Is a balsam or Fraser fir better?
Fraser firs may be fantastic trees, but Balsam fir trees are the O.G. One drawback: The branches are a bit more flexible than the Fraser firs, so keep the ornaments light. Luckily, they retain their splendor, fragrance, and needles arguably just as well.
Are balsam trees good?
How do I identify a balsam fir?
You can identify a balsam fir by the pitch filled blisters on its smooth bark. The needles are single rather than grouped, and leave no bump behind when they fall off. Needles are flat with a distinct top and bottom. The bottom has two lighter colored ‘racing stripes’.
What is the best natural Christmas tree?
Cedar trees are also an excellent choice for Christmas trees. The most famous species for this purpose is the Eastern Red Cedar which is native to the southern US. They are preferred to other cedar species because of their piney aroma, natural pyramid crown, and its ease of maintenance.
Which Christmas tree is the most fragrant?
The Balsam Fir at one time was the most popular tree. It was considered the traditional Christmas tree up to about 20 years ago when other varieties started flooding the market. It is the most fragrant tree you can buy.
What is the best Christmas tree to buy?
The Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) is among the best-selling Christmas trees in America. It is valued for it delicate appearance and excellent needle retention, and is especially well-suited for small and lightweight ornaments. You may wish to choose the eastern white pine as your Christmas tree if you have allergies, since its scent is light.
What is the best selling Christmas tree?
Balsam Fir. The Balsam fir is the most fragrant of the trees,making it the most popular Christmas tree variety.
