Arnie's Place on Loudon Road has boasted fresh-cut Christmas trees for more than 20 years. And the early bird most definitely gets the worm.
“They're fresh-cut trees, so what's the difference if it sits here or it sits in your garage or back shed? Get the stress out early and get your tree,” owner Tom Arnold, who has already sold out of most trees taller than 12 feet, said.
Arnold and Kaitlyn Witts have worked together for the past 12 years and sell both Balsam and Fraser trees, though Arnold said Frasers now make up about 90 percent of the business.
The Arnie's team will trim the top and bottom of the tree and load it on your car for you. You also might leave with a wooden nickel redeemable for ice cream when the restaurant re-opens in February.
Such stocking stuffers have bred loyalty, including one customer who has been back for a tree in each of the past 18 years.
As for finding the perfect tree?
“It's different for everyone,” Arnold said. “Just look for what's going to make you happy and then look at the price.”
Roger Maurais Trees
Jeff Hartlen, who was helping Roger Maurais sell his trees outside of Everett Arena, said they sell Balsam, Fraser, pine and spruce trees.
Hartlen recommends deciding on a price range before you arrive.
“I try not to bug the customers too much, just let them look around. One of the first things I say is decide what you want to spend and then find the right tree,” he said.
Maurais's fuller trees have been marked with green and blue tags, while those with white tags are less full, Hartlen said.
Bessette Trees
Serge Houle of Bessette Trees outside of Sears on Loudon Road said selecting between Balsam and Fraser is an important decision.
Frasers tend to last longer before the needles fall off, he said.
“If you've got a dry house or a warm house, the Frasers are better because they won't dry up so fast and lose their needles,” he said.
Balsams, however, tend to smell better, giving off that fabled Christmas tree scent.
Want another handy tip? Don't use tap water on the tree unless it's been out overnight, and add Sprite to the water for extended life. “It has citrus and sugar, and the trees like that,” he said.
