The Christmas tree is perhaps the most important part of your holiday decorations. It provides a place to display all your favorite ornaments, and it's also the spot where most people pile their gifts. The tree is usually placed in a focal point and often becomes the center of attention for several weeks.

If you've opted for a real tree this year, it's pertinent that the tree is fresh enough to last through the season, notonly for aesthetic purposes, but for safety reasons, as well. A dried-out tree is a fire hazard.

Follow the tips below to ensure that the tree you choose is appropriate.

Buying a tree at a tree farm

The best place to find a healthy tree is at a tree farm. There, you can choose from among numerous growing, live trees. A visit to the farm is a wonderful family holiday outing, too!

* Before you go, measure the area in your home where the tree will be placed, including your ceiling height. You can't properly judge a tree's size in the field because you have nothing for reference. The tree will look much larger when you get it inside.

* Check the trees for dried or dead branches. These could be a sign of disease or insect infestation.

* Choose a tree with a straight trunk.

* View the tree from all angles to make sure there are no bare spaces.

* Take along a pair of gloves for handling the tree.

Choosing a cut tree

The problem with cut trees is that you have no way of knowing when the tree was harvested. It could have been sitting on the lot for days without water.

* Smell the tree. It should have a clean, fragrant odor.

* Shake the tree. No green needles should fall off. It's normal for a few brown needles to shed, however.

* Break a needle with your fingers. A pine needle should be pliable and not break. Needles from other species should break easily, much like a stalk of fresh celery.

* Choose a small branch and bend it. If the tree is fresh, the branch will be pliable. If it snaps in two, choose another tree.

* Check the trunk for moisture loss. If it appears wrinkled, the tree is too dry. Also, the trunk should be straight.

* View the tree form a distance to make sure there are no gaps or holes. These are often difficult to spot up close.

Once you get your tree home, follow tips for preparing and maintaining your Christmas tree.