December 11, 2007

My Christmas Trees and Glossary

People are starting to ask me about my holiday decorations in and around my home, and we’ve actually been quite busy making things look festive.  This year I acquired five magnificent trees from Jeff Sutherland’s Christmas Tree Farm in Elk Creek, Virginia (276-655-4088).  Jeff was kind enough to deliver the trees himself and he explained that he has a total of 500 acres of trees growing in North Carolina and Virginia.  What he brought to Bedford was a Noble Fir, a Douglas Fir, a Concolor Fir, a Fraser Fir, and a Blue Spruce.  He also grows Scotch Pine and White Pine.  One tree is already gracing the music room of the Summer House, as we’re getting ready to shoot a caroling party for next year’s edition of Living.  Another tree will be decorated beautifully for enjoyment in the Main House.  And I think the remaining ones will be set up outdoors for everyone on the property to appreciate.

All lined up, right after delivery..
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Jeff Sutherland, posing with tree
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Picture from last night, one tree in the forground and one in the background
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A different angle, how nice! Can't wait to show you the ones inside the houses...
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Christmas Tree Glossary

A real Christmas tree is one of the most popular traditions associated with Christmas and it’s estimated that around 35 million trees are sold each year.  If you haven’t bought your tree and are having a difficult time choosing what type to get, here is a glossary that may help you decide.

Noble Fir – has thick, silvery green needles, a symmetrical shape, and sturdy branches, making it a good choice if you have a lot of weighty ornaments.  It has good needle retention and a pleasant mild citrus aroma.

Douglas Fir – is one of the most popular Christmas Trees having a wonderful, sweet piney aroma.  Its needles are soft, dark blue-green, and quite long lasting.

Concolor Fir – has a strong, citrus aroma and silvery-blue needles.  It has a tall, narrow silhouette and loosely spaced branches – a good choice for showcasing ornaments.

Fraser Fir – is another popular choice.  It is symmetrically shaped, has strong branches and short dark-green needles with silver underneath.  It is very fragrant and retains needles well.

Blue Spruce – has stiff, bluish-gray needles and a very symmetrical form.  Needles will drop in a warm room.  This is a good choice for use as a living Christmas tree, to be planted outdoors after the holiday season.

Scotch Pine – has stiff, dark green needles on stiff branches.  It has an open appearance, making more room for ornaments.  Holds needles very well.

White Pine – has soft, blue-green needles 2 to 5 inches long.  Its slender branches will not hold much weight and it has very little fragrance.      

Posted in: Holidays, My Home
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