Complete Buying Guide for Artificial Christmas Trees

It's almost the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to ring in this holiday than with a high-quality artificial Christmas tree that lasts many years?

Create the memories you want and have the Christmas you deserve. But before you start decking the halls to the nines and pinning on Pinterest, there are a few things to consider. Nearly Natural has over 75 years of experience in the live plant industry, with plants named after Grandpa Natural. Our team of horticulturists aims to inspire you to pick the best Christmas tree for your family. We created this guide to help you find the solution that works for your family. On this page, you will learn everything you need to know about artificial Christmas trees, from types of trees, materials, and color to measuring your space.

a living room featuring two sofas, a fireplace flanked by two Christmas trees, and holiday decor

Benefits of an artificial Christmas tree

We recommend an artificial Christmas tree for most people. Nowadays, many of us live busy, high-energy lifestyles and have the added responsibilities of caring for family and pets. Did you know that some Christmas trees are poisonous and dangerous for children and pets? Many parents opt for faux Christmas trees to protect their families. Also, some cats have developed adverse reactions to some natural elements, and because cats are naturally curious, trees can be challenging.

Some of the benefits of artificial plants are their low maintenance, year-after-year durability, and cost-effective price. We know the holidays can be stressful for our finances, but to help ease the burden on the wallet, you can't go wrong with joining team faux.

Choosing the Right Christmas Tree Size

We know this part can be a bit complicated. We understand the struggle too! But don't worry, choosing the right-sized Christmas tree is a breeze with our easy-to-follow instructions. Before measuring your space, decide where you want to place your new artificial Christmas tree, whether that's an office, living room, or kid's room.

Once you pick a location, get your measuring tape and measure from floor to ceiling, or to whatever height you want the tree to stand. As a rule of thumb, the average ceiling height is about 6-8 feet high. Ideally, you'd want a tree that is about 12 inches less than the height of your ceilings if you don't plan to add a tree topper. Consider that tree toppers and stands can add more height to your tree. Keep this in mind when shopping for holiday décor so you purchase accessories that are suited for your tree.

Tabletop Christmas Trees

Tabletop trees are perfect for spreading holiday cheer to any area. Their compact size makes them ideal for a kid's room, offices, dorms, or nooks. Many customers enjoy purchasing mini ornaments to complement the look. Remember that mini Christmas trees can be a great budget-friendly option for tight areas. They also make a fine gift.

Trees Up to 6 Feet

If you have a low ceiling or want to decorate with multiple Christmas trees, choose a tree under 6 feet tall. Even with a 7- or 8-foot ceiling, a shorter tree can give you extra room for a tree topper and other decorations. If you have an average-height ceiling and prefer a larger tree, a 6-foot tree is a good choice, especially if you plan to use a large topper. Trees from 4 to 6 feet tall are the most popular options.

Trees from 7 to 9 Feet

Christmas trees between 7 and 9 feet tall are best suited for rooms with higher ceilings and enough floor space to accommodate their larger size. These trees can make a dramatic focal point in living rooms, entryways, and other spacious areas.

Trees Over 9 Feet

Christmas trees over 9 feet tall are designed for spaces with high ceilings and ample room. Their larger size makes them well suited for spacious homes, entryways, commercial spaces, and other areas where a dramatic holiday display is desired.

How to Choose the Right Tree Shape

A tree's shape gives you a general idea of how much room it takes up. If you have a large area, go for a broad, full tree. Choose a narrow or slim tree for compact spaces. Measure your floor space and check it against the dimensions on our website. We base these measurements on the widest point of the tree and the tallest tip on the top at their fullest extended reach.

Full Trees

If you're feeling nostalgic for the season and want to reminisce about Christmas mornings from childhood, look for a lush and full artificial Christmas tree. These broad trees are ideal for when you have a wide space that needs that Christmas cheer. They are wide on the bottom and become thinner as you reach the top.

Slim Trees

Slim Christmas trees are gaining more and more popularity because their thin profile enhances spaces of all shapes and sizes. You don't need a tight area to enjoy the beauty of slim trees. Use them to accent a little nook with some Christmas vibes. They're ideal for apartments, studios, dorms, townhouses, and larger modern homes. Many lovers of minimalist and contemporary aesthetics are opting for this space-saving, stylish choice.

Sparse Trees

The latest trend to take over social media are sparse fake Christmas trees. Sparse trees feature perfectly imperfect branches that create a minimalist and Scandinavian look. Showcase and display all your favorite ornaments, garlands, and accents. Bend the branches and shape them in your space, and watch as your decor rises to another level.

How to Choose a Christmas Tree Color

Christmas trees do not always have to be green. Don't be afraid to go bold. Colorful artificial Christmas trees let you reimagine the holiday and create new traditions. Replace the entire red and green palette across your decor for your own custom look.

Green Christmas Trees

Green is the traditional and classic color that we all know and love for faux Christmas trees. Choose green for a traditional look.

a green Christmas tree with white lights surrounded by Christmas decor

White Christmas Trees

A white artificial Christmas tree creates a peaceful, elegant look and brings a bright, wintry feel to your holiday décor. Its neutral color also makes it easy to pair with ornaments and decorations in almost any color.

a white Christmas tree in a living room next to a fireplace

Black Christmas Trees

Get creative with a black Christmas tree that lasts the entire holiday season. Start with Halloween decorations and then transition to Christmas. For tips on decorating an artificial Christmas tree, visit How to Decorate Your Artificial Christmas Tree.

Pink Christmas Trees

Feel pretty in pink with a creative artificial Christmas tree. A pink tree makes an excellent gift for a kid's room or anyone who just loves pink.

a pink Christmas tree on a pink rug with furniture beside it

Red Christmas Trees

Make a bold statement with a red faux Christmas tree. Combining the classic color of the season with the classic silhouette of a Christmas tree brings fresh take to your holiday decor.

a red Christmas tree in a living room with complementary red decor

How to Find the Right Type of Pre-lit Christmas Tree

Save time, money, and hassle by choosing a pre-lit artificial Christmas tree. Choose from various styles to find the right light type for you:

  • Warm White or Multi-Colored LEDs: Energy-efficient LED lights bring holiday cheer that lasts for many years.
  • Multifunction Lights: Multifunction lights offer multiple light shows ranging from twinkles and bursts to fades. Set the style that you love the most or rotate through settings depending on your mood.
  • Incandescent: Classic incandescent lights have been used since the 1800s and are a popular choice for their classical look.

How to Shape an Artificial Christmas Tree

Shaping an artificial Christmas tree is not difficult but can take some time. Start by assembling the tree following the instructions in its package if it arrives in multiple pieces. From there, expand each branch outward from the trunk starting from the bottom of the tree. Once you've spaced out the branches, loosen the individual sections of needles at the end of each branch, fanning them outward and shaping them to fill in the design. Use the product images on our website as a guideline.