Where to Find the Perfect Christmas Tree in the Edmonton Region

Choosing a real Christmas tree can bring a special touch of tradition and freshness to your holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a classic fir or a unique spruce, there are plenty of options in Edmonton and Sherwood Park. Here's a guide to help you find the perfect tree, keep your tree fresh, and dispose of your tree properly after the holidays:

Local Christmas Tree Farms and Lots

1. Fir Ever Green Tree Farm (Falun, AB)
   Located just outside Edmonton, this farm offers a “choose-and-cut” experience along with precut options. They also sell fresh wreaths and crafts to complete your holiday decor. Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM starting late November.
2. Creekside Home and Garden (Edmonton, AB)
   A convenient spot for precut trees, including balsam firs. They also stock wreaths, garlands, and holiday greens. Visit Tuesday through Saturday.
3. Kiwanis Christmas Tree Lot (Edmonton, AB)
   Kiwanis Christmas Tree Lot is an event held by the Kiwanis Club of South Edmonton every year, with proceeds going towards various community activities.
4. Gouldson Tree Farm (Sturgeon County, AB)
   For a hands-on experience, book an appointment to choose and cut your own tree. They also have precut options.
5. Sherwood’s Forests Tree Farm (Sherwood Park, AB)
   Family owned business offering Colorado Spruce and various Pine and Fir varieties. 

By choosing a local farm or tree lot, you support small businesses while creating cherished holiday memories.

Choosing the Right Tree

Finding the perfect Christmas tree is part art, part science. Here’s how to make the best choice:

Tree Types:

• Balsam Fir: Known for its classic Christmas scent and excellent needle retention.
• Fraser Fir: Sturdy branches and a pleasant fragrance make it great for heavy ornaments.
• Scots Pine: A resilient option with long-lasting needles.
• Spruce Trees: Beautifully dense but tend to shed more needles.

Freshness Check: Bend a needle between your fingers — fresh needles are pliable and snap crisply. The tree should have vibrant green needles that don’t fall off easily when shaken.

Height: Measure your ceiling height and leave room for the topper to avoid trimming your tree down later.

Taking Care of Your Tree

Keep your tree fresh and safe throughout the holiday season:

1. Prepare the Trunk: After purchasing, cut 1-2 inches off the base before placing the tree in water. This allows it to absorb water more efficiently.
2. Hydrate Daily: A typical tree can drink up to a gallon of water per day. Check and refill the water stand regularly to prevent it from drying out.
3. Location Matters: Place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces or radiators to slow needle loss.
4. Decorate Safely: Use LED lights to avoid overheating branches, and check for frayed wires before stringing them on the tree.

What to Do with Your Tree After the Holidays

When the festivities are over, there are eco-friendly options for disposing of your tree:

• Curbside Pickup: Many municipalities, including Edmonton and Sherwood Park, offer curbside tree recycling in early January.
• Information for Edmonton’s Christmas Tree Collection
• Information for Strathcona County’s Christmas Tree Collection
• Mulch It Yourself: If you have a wood chipper, turn your tree into mulch for garden beds or compost piles.
• Habitat Creation: If you have a large property, place the tree in your yard to provide shelter for birds and wildlife during the winter months.

By following these tips, you’ll not only enjoy a beautiful tree but also minimize your environmental impact after the holidays.