This story appeared in the November/December 2023 issue of Bethesda Magazine.
Cut your own Christmas tree
Christmas may still be weeks away, but if you want to cut your own tree, you shouldn’t wait until the last minute. For the past few years, tree farms have been selling out—sometimes just two or three weekends after Thanksgiving. In Montgomery County, Butler’s Orchard in Germantown and Naughty Pine Nursery in Dickerson offer cut-your-own Christmas trees.
At Butler’s, you can cut your own Douglas or Canaan fir trees on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations, available online, are required. Saws are available, but bring your own if you have one. Staff will shake and bale trees, and then tie them securely to your vehicle. Holiday Harvest Days are Wednesdays through Sundays starting Friday in the Farm Park, where you can choose from a selection of precut trees and children can play on the park equipment. Expect a visit from Santa at the park on select Saturdays. The farm market also has a custom wreath department.
Naughty Pine Nursery has Fraser firs available for DIY-ers to cut starting Friday, then Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22. The nursery provides saws, measuring poles and twine for you to secure your tree to your vehicle.
butlersorchard.com | npnursery.com
A primer on Christmas trees
Blue Spruce
With its silvery blue hue and symmetrical, narrow pyramidal shape, the blue spruce is an attractive choice, but the National Christmas Tree Association warns that its needles are sharp and can have an unpleasant odor when crushed. The tree is also known for its strong fragrance and moderate needle retention.
Norway Spruce
The upwardly slanting branches of the Norway spruce make it ideal for holding heavy ornaments and lights. It has a strong aroma and dark green needles, which it tends to shed. But buying it fresh and keeping it watered and away from radiators can help with needle retention.
Douglas Fir
One of the most popular and widely cultivated Christmas tree varieties, the Douglas fir has soft blue-green needles and a sweet fragrance. Its classic conical shape and strong branches make it perfect for showcasing ornaments. It’s also known for excellent needle retention, making for easy cleanup after the holidays.
Canaan Fir
Similar in appearance to balsam and Fraser firs, the Canaan fir has rich dark green needles and a classic conical shape. These trees have a milder fragrance and sturdy branches to hold decorations.
