The celebration of Christmas with a real tree has been a tradition for over 400 years. At one time, all Christmas trees were cut from natural stands (or out of the forest). These wild trees looked nothing like today’s professionally-grown and sheared trees. Today, Christmas trees are plantation grown. Matthes Tree Farm is a “choose and cut” farm where you can come and cut down your tree, as well as select one from our pre-cut lot.
To make your tradition more memorable and pleasant, we’d like to offer a few helpful hints when selecting a tree.
Know the size of the room that you are displaying your tree in.
Select a tree that’s the appropriate size. Don’t forget to include space for the tree stand and tree topper!
If you’re looking for a particular size of tree?
- Wide trees include Douglas Fir, Scotch Pine and Blue Spruce
- Narrow trees include Fraser Fir and Canaan Fir
What is the length of time the tree will be displayed?
- A short time (3 weeks or less) – all varieties. Norway Spruce are attractive but needle retention is only two to three weeks
- A longer period (up to 6 weeks) – Scotch Pine, Fraser Fir and White Pine
- Also, anytime you cut a tree and not set it up the same day, the tree should be recut
How much decoration will be used?
- The more decorations that are used, the stronger the branches need to be, so we recommend purchasing a Blue Spruce or Frasier Fir.
Additional tips:
- Wear the right clothing for your day on the tree farm. As a “cut your own tree” farm, you’ll be happier if you bring your warm coat, boots, hat and gloves. Don’t forget to bring your camera along.
- We would prefer you leave you pets at home.
- Feel free to bring your own hand saw, or just use one of ours. But please, for the safety of others, no chain saws.