Getting the right Christmas tree means a lot to a great many people - and these people are usually faced with one crucial question: which are better as a Christmas tree, spruce trees or fir trees? These are the main two Christmas trees types available, so if you are after a traditional Christmas tree, it's likely to be one of these.
 
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Unfortunately, there isn't a quick answer for those people, and it will depend on what you are looking to get out of your Christmas tree this year. So rather than answer that question for you, we decided we are just going to give you the tools to answer it for yourselves. We are going to run through the key attributes of fir trees and spruce trees so that by the end of this blog you will know for sure which one you should welcome into your home this Christmas.
Spruce Christmas Trees
We'll start off with spruce trees. These evergreen trees is seen as the traditional Christmas tree option, for reasons we will cover below. They can be grown all over the UK, and spruce trees are responsible for around 50% of the commercial wood in this country.
Shape
It's all about the shape with a spruce Christmas tree - this is the classic Christmas tree look. A beautiful conical shape that has been the inspiration for practically every Christmas tree ever seen on TV, films, Christmas cards and everywhere else you have seen one. If you close your eyes and picture a Christmas tree, it will have the shape of a spruce. It has a fantastic silhouette and certainly looks like the perfect tree.
Branches
Spruce tress have very strong branches, that point upwards. This is what helps create that classic Christmas tree shape, but the sturdy branches also have the benefit of being able to support ornaments. However, spruce trees are usually used with a minimalist approach to decorating - it's a more open structure, so a few decorations here and there, and then let the tree do the talking!
Needles
Spruce needles are stiff and sharp, and form a spiral pattern on the branches. Again, this all adds to the striking presence of the tree, but those sharp needles are another reason why it may be best to go for fewer decorations - reaching into the tree can be slightly painful, as the dark green needles are prickly to touch. Spruce needles fall at a quicker rate than fir needles, but you can balance this out by giving your tree plenty of water.
Types of Spruce trees
Norway Spruce trees - A Norway Spruce tree is a charming, classic Christmas tree with the perfect shape
Blue Spruce - A twist on a classic. Blue-green needles give it a frosty look, perfect for your indoor Winter Wonderland.
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Fir Christmas Trees
Next up we have fir trees. These have become the most popular Christmas tree type in the UK, grown in Scotland and the wetter parts of England and Wales. Like spruce trees, they produce cones (not pine cones which come from pine trees, but fir cones), which can be incorporated into your decorations.
Shape
Fir trees tend to have a layered shape - still in the the classic shape of a Christmas tree, but with very dense foliage, giving it a more rugged look than the spruce. In many ways it looks more natural, a sea of branches and needles, thick and pointing out at different directions.
Branches
Fir branches almost feel like they have been designed for putting decorations on! They usually are horizontal and in layers, making them perfect for resting or hanging ornaments on, with plenty of space between each layer. They are strong branches too, so can support whatever you want to hang from them!
Needles
Needle retention is a big reason why fir trees have become so popular. They will keep their needles for a long time, so you won't have to keep hoovering them up. They are also soft needles, rather than the prickly needles of the spruce, so it's not as painful when you do catch yourself on them.
Types of Fir trees
Korean fir - The Korean fir Christmas trees are beautifully full and lush trees. The perfect focal point for your festive season.
Nordmann fir - this lovely symmetrical Christmas tree is a classic option for a fir tree.
Fraser fir - you'll get thick green foliage on this compact Christmas tree - great if you are short on space but still want a standout Christmas tree.
So which is best - Spruce or Fir Christmas Trees?
Both of these tree species will help you create a wonderful aura for your Christmas celebrations this year - but hopefully you will know have some idea which of these types of Christmas trees is the right one for your home. One thing that every real Christmas tree has in common is that unmistakable Christmas tree fragrance.
Whichever of these Christmas tree types you opt for, there are still plenty of options for you - not just size and shape, but do you want a fresh cut tree or are you interested in pot grown trees? What kind of Xmas stands will you need?
Have a look through our beautiful selection of fresh cut and pot grown Christmas trees online and you can tick off a big job today - your new, handpicked Christmas tree will arrive at your door in no time at all.
FAQs
How do you care for a fresh cut Christmas tree?
The main things you need to do to help a fresh cut Christmas tree is make sure it is secured in a quality Christmas tree stand, and also ensure it has plenty of water. Some trees can drink a lot of water when they are first cut, so keep topping it up.
How long will my Christmas tree last?
Most real Christmas trees will last around 5 weeks, providing you give them plenty of water.
What size Christmas tree should I buy?
It will depend on the space that you have to put it - but use this as a guide:
Small space with low ceiling: around 4-6ft
Standard ceiling: 6.5-7.5ft
Large spaces with high ceilings: 8ft+