Going Natural

Even the most convincing fake tree can’t give you that only-in-the-forest pine smell. And for traditionalists, only the real deal, which can cost between $15 and $150, evokes the ghosts of Christmases long past.

When you're shopping, try to look at the trees under good light. Brown needles and bugs are deal-breakers. Ask when the tree was cut; the longer it sits around out of the ground, the sooner it dies. Also find out its height and width -- you don't want the top of your tree scraping the ceiling.

While you can certainly pick up a tree in the 7-Eleven parking lot, Internet orders have been growing at more than 25 percent a year. Internet purchasers avoid the hassle of wedging a 6- or 7-foot beast into their car. Plus, they often have a bigger selection of trees to choose from. (For instance, from Cupkie Christmas Village, christmastreevillage.com, you can choose between 7-foot white pines, balsam firs, Colorado blue spruces and more, for $79 to $91, including shipping.)

Even better: A mail-ordered tree is likely to be fresher than one you buy in a lot. They’re shipped right after they’re cut, rather than sitting on a spot for days or weeks. The downside is that you can’t touch or see the tree in person. Also, because of shipping restrictions, you may be limited to trees that are no taller than seven feet.