Most folks would agree that putting up a fake Christmas tree is far easier than getting a live one into your house. Still, it’s not a walk in the park if you haven’t done it before.
That’s because not every artificial tree is the same, so you need to do your prep before diving into all that tinsel.
For starters, you get what you pay for when it comes to a man-made spruce. Prices range from $50 to $1,000 or more, depending on the manufacturer.
According to Nearly Natural, a company that specializes in artificial flowers, plants, and trees, a fake fir should last at least 10 years, so consider upping your budget if you can.
Not only will you need to sift through tree species, but you should also consider the materials they’re made from. Fortunately, you don’t need to be an arborist to do this—just be aware of the differences and choose the one that’s most appealing to you.
To assist you in your journey into the world of artificial Christmas trees, here are the top mistakes to avoid—advice directly from interior design experts who have used artificial trees to decorate their own spaces for many years.
1. Not Learning About the Types of Trees Before You Buy
If you want the most realistic-looking tree, choose one made from polyethylene. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) trees are generally less expensive but have flatter, less lifelike branches compared to PE trees.
When it comes to tree types, a classic green fir is always a safe bet. However, if you prefer a wintry look, consider flocked trees, which have branches that appear to be dusted with snow.
Tree species matter for realism, with options like Morgan firs and pines being popular choices. Additionally, you can find tinsel-covered and aluminum trees in a wide array of colors, so feel free to indulge in vibrant hues if you like.
2. Buying the Wrong Size
It might seem obvious, but some people don’t measure accurately. Assess your space to determine the tree size you can accommodate. Check both the height of your room and the width of your space.
If you’re unsure, opt for a small tabletop version.
Consider where you’ll temporarily place any furniture you need to move for the tree.
Additionally, ensure a stable base for your tree, as a wobbly one can be problematic with kids and pets. If you’re placing the tree on a riser or table, remember to account for the additional height.
“Trees up to 6 feet are considered tabletop, so do the math to ensure you don’t exceed your ceiling clearance,”.
3. Not Counting the Bulbs on a Pre-Lit Tree
One of the main advantages of an artificial tree is that it’s pre-strung with lights, saving you from dealing with tangled cords. However, before purchasing, ensure that the tree has enough bulbs to meet your preference.
It’s recommended to have at least 100 lights for every foot and a half of the tree. Some people prefer to double this number for a brighter glow, so check the specifications and add extra strands if desired.
4. Not Boning Up on Branch Density
The more branch tips a tree has, the fuller and more attractive it will look—and the more ornaments you can hang. As a general guideline, aim for at least 800 tips on a 6-foot tree and between 1,200 and 1,500 tips on a 7-foot tree.
Once you unpack the tree, take time to fluff out the branches and position them correctly. If the tree appears sparse, adding decorative elements like trailing ribbon, bows, pinecones, and bird nests can help fill in the gaps.
5. Not Having Enough Hands on Deck
Not all trees unfold quickly or easily. Check the product details before purchasing to understand what’s involved and whether you’ll need assistance.
Ensure you have the necessary equipment ready, such as extension cords and a tree skirt if the tree is pre-lit, to hide the wires.
6. Not Expecting Some Mess
While a fake tree doesn’t shed needles or require watering, it’s not entirely maintenance-free.
Flocked trees with “snow” can leave a mess on the floor. For cleaning, some artificial trees only need a dusting, while others might require a damp cloth to clean the branches.
7. Not Considering Your Storage
Investing in a reusable tree is practical, but finding a suitable storage space for the other 11 months of the year can be challenging.
If you plan to keep the tree intact year after year, ensure you can transport it through doorways without damaging it or your home. Research how the tree disassembles before buying.
Since the original box is often difficult to reuse, consider a new storage solution. You might need a bin or tree slip to store the tree upright in your attic or garage, avoiding reassembly issues each year.
