It's time to pick out the Christmas tree
November 27, 2007
We strolled part of his 70 acres and talked, stopping every once in a while to break off a branch tip and enjoy its aroma. “Better than Calvin Klein,” Mr. Lindner says.
And he’s right!
What I enjoyed most about my afternoon at Sunbrite was being out in the country. It’s only about five minutes from Highway 70, but the fresh air, scenery and kindhearted attitudes of my hosts convinced my senses I was far from the hustle and bustle.
This Christmas, take time to stop and smell the trees!
The folks at Sunbrite offered some pointers about the different types of trees and how to find the best one for your home:
The Balsam Fir is a lovely dark-green color and has a pleasant fragrance. It holds its needles well. Avoid hanging heavy ornaments. The Balsam Fir’s branches are flexible and may drop weighty decorations.
The Concolor Fir is bluish-green, has good needle retention and a pleasing aroma.
The Douglas Fir has soft shiny green needles. If the branches have been trimmed to perfect its shape, there may not be too much space between branches for hanging ornaments. Keep this in mind while browsing.
The Scotch Pine keeps very well. If it becomes dry, it doesn’t readily drop needles. Wear gloves when dealing with a Scotch Pine. The needles are very sharp.
The Norway Spruce is a lovely tree. Wait until just a week or so before Christmas when buying the Norway Spruce. It has good color, but will drop needles unless freshly cut.
The Blue Spruce has a traditional shape and its branches are strong for holding heavy decorations. The BlueSpruce appears blue and silvery. This type would be lovely in a home with blue in the color scheme. Wear gloves when dealing with the Blue Spruce.
After the Festivities:
Trash collectors are scheduled to pick up Christmas trees in Wentzville on January 10 and 17. There is no need to wrap the tree. Just drag it to your curb.
About Sunbrite Farms:
Choose and cut your own. Pre-cut trees will also be available.
Take I-70 to Lake Saint Louis Exit #214
North to 435 Guthrie Road
Open Daily Thanksgiving – Christmas
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – clear day
9:00 a.m. – 4:40 p.m. – cloudy day
Copyright 2007 Neighbors About Town
Buying a Christmas tree is more than making a purchase. It creates a lifetime of memories.
I took a walk with Ralph Lindner, owner of Sunbrite Farms in O'Fallon, and the friendly people who help him.