If you buy a real Christmas tree each year like my family does, you may wonder what you should be looking for? Obviously, you don't want a tree that's 3 feet taller than your ceiling, but which trees last longer, or smell better, or have softer needles that don't pinch your feet when you're walking barefoot in the house.

Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
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Here are a few common evergreen types of Christmas trees and what they have to offer, according to an article by Marie Iannotti on gardening.about.com:

"Balsam Fir or Canaan Fir - It is usually the most reasonably priced and abundant cut tree. Dark green with a slight silvery cast, Balsams have short, flat, needles that are long lasting. Very fragrant when first cut.

Colorado Blue Spruce - They range in color from dark green to powdery blue, with stiff 1 to 3 inch needles. The needles can be so stiff they scratch, so be careful when handling. Good needle retention, but they will drop in a warm room.

Douglas Fir - A beautiful, full dark green to blue variety. It holds its needles well and is very fragrant.

Norway Spruce - Pretty tree with pore needle retention.

Scotch Pine - This is one of the most popular Christmas trees. The branches are stiff with ridged, dark green needles that hold for four weeks and don't drop when dry. As a bonus, Scotch Pine has a nice, lasting aroma."

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