Why Balsam Fir Christmas Trees?
The predominant species of Christmas tree grown in Nova Scotia is the Balsam fir. It is native to Nova Scotia and grows in abundance across our province. Balsam Fir is a very popular variety of Christmas tree and is highly sought-after both here, across the continent, and in the Caribbean too.
Balsam fir trees are known and loved for their beautiful dark green colour, their natural Christmas tree shape, and most of all, their rich fragrance. The aroma of a balsam fir is difficult, if not impossible, to imitate.
If you’re looking for a different variety of tree, please contact us.
- Plan ahead. Measure ceiling height and floor space in your chosen room. Remember that trees always look smaller outdoors!
- Prefer a wide tree? A full tree? A tall tree? A short tree? Not to worry. All shapes of Christmas trees can be found in Nova Scotia! In fact, no two are the same. What does your perfect tree look like?
- Buy your tree from reputable Choose and Cut lots or Retailers where you can get advice on selecting and caring for your tree. Most CTCNS members abide by the Retail Code of Practice to ensure your tree-buying experience will be top-notch. Check the locator tool to find them!
- It's best to buy your tree within a day or two of when you plan to stand it up in your home, so plan accordingly.
- Take good care of your tree!
The Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia (CTCNS) Retail Code of Practice
The Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia’s Retail Code of Practice is designed to help assure that consumers receive fresh, quality trees from reliable, responsible sales outlets. When purchasing a real Christmas tree in Nova Scotia, ensure that you are purchasing from reliable, responsible retail lot that complies with the code, which includes the following promises:
- Your tree will be fresh cut - if cut before December, no more than 10 days before being placed on retail display.
- Your tree will be clean - vendors will remove mud, road salt, debris and an abundance of dead needles.
- Your tree will be properly stored - vendors will store trees in an effort to prevent frost damage or drying.
- Your tree shall have clean, neat handles - the butt of the tree will be neatly trimmed.
- Your tree will have a fresh cut made at the butt - if you are not equipped to do so at home, simply request that the vendor cut it for you.
- Your tree will be guaranteed - trees which shed excessively will be replaced or refunded.
- Tree care information will be available - the vendor will provide advice on how to best care for your tree at home.
- The tree lot will be clean and professional - the lot will be clean and safe and staff will be friendly and courteous.
- Tree preparation for transport home will be assisted - the vendor may provide wrapping services and help load the tree if needed.
Caring for your christmas tree once home
- Protect your tree from sun, wind and salt on the drive home.
- If you won’t be decorating for a few days, keep the tree in an unheated garage or porch. If this is not an option, keep the tree outdoors but away from the drying effects of wind and sun.
- Before bringing your tree indoors, make a fresh cut of at least 5 cm off the base of the trunk so the tree can absorb water easily. Care for your tree as you would fresh flowers!
- Place your tree in a stand that holds at least 5 litres (1 gallon) of water.
- Water your tree daily with tap water. No additives are needed! Some, like sugar, can be detrimental.
- Don’t let the water level drop below the base of the tree or the trunk could seal over, minimizing further water uptake.
- Don’t place your tree near heat sources.
- Use only CSA approved lighting sets and when purchasing new ornaments, check the labels to determine flame retardant ratings. Check lights and sockets every year. A well-watered tree will never burn, but faulty lights cannot make the same claim.
- Turn your tree lights off at bedtime and when you leave the room.
- Last but not least, enjoy the beauty and fragrance of your tree!