Tis’ the season for finding yourself that perfect Christmas tree, but with so many options out there – how do you know which one is right for your home? Should you go with the 5-foot or 8-foot tree? What’s the difference between a spruce and a fir? Is it better to have a fake tree versus a live one? This tree-buying guide will clear up your confusion, helping you select the perfect evergreen.

STEP 1: Do your homework before you go

Take a walk around your house and decide where you will put the tree. It should optimally go in an area with lots of space around the perimeter (Santa needs adequate room to set his gifts). There should also be plenty of seating for accommodating the whole family when it comes time to open presents. Many people enjoy placing their tree near a window so the beauty of the lights can be seen from outside.

Once the spot has been selected, take measurements of the area. Start by measuring the floor to the ceiling, then measure the depth you’d like the tree to extend to.

Take your height measurement and subtract:

• 1 foot for treetopper
• ½ foot for the tree stand
• If you will be placing the tree on any sort of table or base, make sure to subtract the height of the furniture as well.

The result will be your height limit while shopping.  Remember to take your measuring tape along with you on your hunt. You will want to stay as close to your limit as possible (without going over) in order to make the best use of your space.

Make sure to measure the trees you are considering from the front of the base to the back too. Evaluate how the measurement compares to the ideal depth you decided upon. You don’t want to end up with a tree that takes up half the room.

Step 2: Evaluate the finances

Fake trees have come a long way in recent years, making it difficult to even tell the difference. Many families have opted to “go faux” due to the simplicity of putting the tree up and taking it down, the cost effectiveness of reusing the same tree each year, and the convenience of having no falling needles to deal with. Many man-made trees are even manufactured with flame retardant foliage, decreasing the risk of electrical fire from your lights.

Consider Renting a Tree

You now have the option to rent a tree for the holiday season. These trees are dug up rather than chopped down, which makes it the most environmentally friendly option. The supplier generally returns the first week of January to pick your tree back up so it can be replanted and continue to grow for the following year. It is not the cheapest option, but considering your tree is delivered and collected right from your door, it’s still very cost effective – not to mention the cost you’re saving mother earth.

 Step 3: Get out there and shop!

Now that you’ve taken your measurements and made the decision whether to buy a live, fake, or rented tree – get out there and find the perfect fit!

For those of you buying live trees, you may be wondering the difference between all the different species available. In general, firs and pine trees tend to hold on to their needles better than trees in the spruce family. They also stay hydrated more effectively, give off a stronger fragrance, and have stronger branches and needles (making them sturdier for holding lights and ornaments). The higher quality gives them a higher price tag as well, so evaluate the best fit for your family.

This post was provided by Derek Dasher from YourLocalSecurity.com. Derek is a regular contributor at In Good Measure and enjoys writing about tips for improving your home and your life.