Calgarians Seek Real Christmas Tree Wisdom: A Guide to Festive Freshness
Finding Your Perfect Tree: Local & Legal Options
For first-timers and seasoned buyers in Calgary, you have a few ways to secure your perfect evergreen. The most common options are seasonal retail lots run by local charities, hardware stores (like Canadian Tire), or grocery stores (like Safeway). For a truly festive experience, look for cut-your-own tree farms operating just outside the city, such as those near Cochrane or Sundre. Always measure your intended space at home, allowing for the stand and any topper, before you go shopping.
If you're thinking about driving out to public land to cut your own tree, you must obtain a permit to legally harvest a Christmas tree from certain areas of Alberta's Crown Land. You need to purchase a Personal Use Forest Products Permit (PUFP), which is typically available online through the Alberta government's forestry and parks website. Remember, cutting is strictly prohibited in provincial parks, protected areas, and near waterways, as fines for unauthorized cutting can be substantial.
Real vs. Artificial: Weighing the Trade-Offs
The choice between a real and artificial tree often boils down to effort, cost, and scent. Opting for a real tree brings the unparalleled benefit of that authentic evergreen scent and supports local tree farms; furthermore, real trees are biodegradable and can be recycled through Calgary's city-wide composting programs after the holidays. However, the downside is clear: they require daily watering (a must in Calgary’s dry climate), they shed needles, and they pose a greater fire hazard if neglected.
Conversely, artificial trees offer major convenience—they require no maintenance, are hypoallergenic, and can be reused for years, significantly lowering the long-term cost. Yet, they lack the natural pine fragrance and are typically made of plastic or PVC, meaning they are not recyclable and have a much higher environmental footprint upon disposal.
Essential Tree Care for a Fresh Season
Once you've chosen your tree, proper care is key to longevity. To ensure your tree can absorb water efficiently, you must first make a fresh cut of at least half an inch to one inch off the base of the trunk to remove any dried sap seal. Immediately place the trunk in a sturdy stand filled with water, ensuring the base remains submerged at all times. Real trees are remarkably thirsty, potentially consuming up to two gallons of water daily in the first few days, so you must check and refill the reservoir every single day. Finally, to prevent premature drying and excessive needle drop, position your tree away from direct heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents, ensuring your festive centerpiece remains vibrant throughout the holidays.
