Poll: Live Or Artificial Christmas Tree?

It's time to talk about Christmas trees.

Some people like artificial trees that can be reused year after year. They can reasonably argue that artificials are “greener” than live trees that only last a season.

For others, the scent of evergreen wafting through the living room is part of the family ritual.

Vote in our poll or leave a comment to indicate your preference.

Meanwhile, if you opt for a live tree, here are some tips for choosing a good one and keeping it safe and healthy well past Christmas Day.

Before you leave home, make sure you know the height of your ceiling.  Get a tree that’s at least a foot shorter than the overhead. Pick your location and measure its diameter to make sure your tree isn’t too wide. Measure the diameter of your tree stand. Do the same with the base of the tree you buy. You want the tree to fit in the stand with room to tighten the screws that hold it upright.

At the lot or tree farm (if you cut a live tree) look for a specimen with a straight base that at least six inches tall to fit into your tree stand (and, again, choose one that is not too thick). Shake the tree. If it’s fresh few needles should fall. As far as varieties, let your senses (and your budget) be the guide. If you buy a pre-cut tree, ask the vendor to trim a little off the base to allow for better water take up at home.

Back home again, keep your tree well watered. Don’t let it go dry.  This will likely mean watering every day. Follow common sense rules: don’t place the tree near a heater or open flame. Trim the lower branches of the tree to keep them out of reach of children or pets (and create more space for gifts). Only use lights approved for safety by Underwriters Lab and if you re-use lights from last year, make sure the cords have not frayed.

If you have a favorite tree lot in town, stay with the tried and true.

If not, or if you want a family outing, Pick Your Own Christmas Tree.org  lists sites in Alameda and Contra Costa counties that sell pre-cut and/or live trees.

An alternative list from the National Christmas Tree Association allows you to plug in a zip code to find a location near you.

Whichever option you choose, call ahead to make sure the listing is current.

Who wants cranky kids or a glowering spouse to cast a pall on the tree hunt!