As the Thanksgiving holiday comes to a close, people are starting to decorate their homes with trees and lights for the Christmas season.

Different families have different traditions. While some prefer real trees, others purchase artificial decorations.

Real trees take some upkeep, but for some it wouldn’t be Christmas without the evergreen smell.

The Flower Center Nursery is one local business that sells real greenery.

Owners Glen and Libby Beard said the best way to keep real Christmas trees fresh throughout the holiday season is to put a one-inch-thick cut in the stump before placing it in the stand.

“We recommend using a tree preservative in the water when you fill it up with water,” Glen said. “Also, make sure it stays filled with water. Don’t ever let it dry out.”

Another tip is to redirect or cut off any air vents that may blow in the tree’s direction.

“That’s really about all you can do. They do make a spray that you can spray on the outside of it that’ll help it retain moisture,” he said. “Last year was the first year we ever had it.”

The Flower Center Nursery ordered 313 Fraser fir trees from North Carolina and after having the trees in the store for two days, the stock was already down to 290.

“We order direct from the tree farm. It saves us money so we can pass that on to our customers,” Libby said.

Plus, since they are shipped directly, the trees have been cut within the week they are received.

“We sold out in two weeks last year,” she said.

Libby doesn’t think the drought has had a major impact on the tree’s quality.

“I think they actually, in the mountains of North Carolina, got enough rain,” she said.

Libby said customers can come in and pick out a tree before they are ready to take it home, and she will keep it reserved in the back until the customer is ready to pick it up. She said they will also put the tree in a stand and deliver it, if requested.

The store, 3150 South Frontage Road, has a variety of sizes to fit different needs.

Trees from 5 to 6 foot are $49; the 6 to 7 foot are $63; the 7 to 8 foot are $74; the 8 to 9 foot are $100; the 9 to 10 foot are $139; the 10 to 11 foot are $171; and the 12 foot are $299.