OTTAWA, ON – If you are in the Christmas spirit and feel like trimming the tree, it is not too early to buy a real one.

Tree lots are setting up across the capital this weekend.

Balsam, Pine and Frasier Fir trees are recommended for this time of the season because the needles will hold up for Christmas Day.

“When people get home with their tree, take another inch or half an inch off the trunk”, said Ruth Thomas of Thomas Tree Farm.  She recommended refilling a two litre tree stand with warm water to keep the tree fresh for Christmas Day.

Meanwhile the debate over the type of tree you want to decorate – real or artificial – continues.

Most people 1310News spoke with said they prefer real trees to put their gifts under.

“We always have a real tree”, Lisa told 1310News.  “We love the smell.  A real tree means Christmas.”

Many agreed that the smell and look of a real tree is worth the mess of tree needles; however, a couple people said they prefer artificial because it is less mess.

“It’s more convenient to have a fake one”, said Brenda.  “We always had a real one when the kids were small because it’s part of the Christmas tradition.”