Live Christmas trees in the Lower Mainland buyers guide

There's nothing quite likethe sweet scent of a real Christmas tree during the holiday season.

They require more care than artificial trees from constant watering to disposal but they add an undeniable festive touch.

Here are some options so you can head home with a tall Fir or petite Pine this holiday season.

Pre-cut Trees

Local tree lots are likely your best bet for pre-cut trees.

A number of local charitable groups opentree lots every year so you can buy a tree while helping others.

Vancouver South Lions Club - the lot is run by volunteers and proceeds go back to projects supported by the Lions club including projects forkids and seniors. They're located outsideJohn Oliver Secondary at thecorner of Fraser Street and E. 41st Avenue. Credit cards are accepted.

TREK Trees - Students, their parents and teachers from Prince of Wales secondary's TREK outdoor education program rally every year to open this lot. They say they're Vancouver's largest with 2000 trees available.Prices range from $20 to $60 and they will even make free deliveries toseniors. You can find the lot at Prince of Wales2250 Eddington Drive.

Aunt Leah's Tree Lots - If you live outside of Vancouver, then Aunt Leah's might have the tree for you. Proceeds from purchases will supportthe charity's work with foster kids, teen mothers and provide retail training experience for youth right at the lot. Prices start at $15 for a tree.

• Burnaby-All Saints Anglican Church,Royal Oak and Rumble.
• Coquitlam -Eagle Ridge United Church,2813 Glen Drive.
• North Vancouver -Lonsdale Quay,East Plaza 123 Carrie Cates Court.
• Vancouver-St. Stephen's United Church, W.54thandGranvilleStreet.

Scouts Christmas Tree Lot - The North Shore Scouts host an annual tree lot to raise funds supporting a number of groups in the area. You can find them at Park Royal atthe corner of Taylor Way and Clyde Avenue.

Potted Trees

For those in smaller homes or want a live tree, potted options might be more desirable.

Keep in mind if you plan on re-planting the trees outside after you've had it in your home, it can only remain indoorsfor up to two weeks.

Garden Centres - stores like Figaro'sGarden in East Vancouver and Art's Nursery in Surreyhave stocked up on a selection of potted trees that you can nurtureyear-round after the decorations come down.

Grocery stores - grocery chains across the Lower Mainland like Whole Foods and Save-on-Foodsare carrying Christmas trees in pots. Some also offer pre-cut options. Prices range from $25 to $50.

U-Cut Trees

If you want to head out and cut your own tree, the B.C. Christmas Tree Council has compiled a list of farms across the provinceyou can visit with your family. Some farms let your borrow their sawsand help with baling.

Farms like Langley'sFrosty's Family Christmas Tree Farmand Richmond's H&M Christmas Tree Farmeven serveup hot cider and carols for a fully festive outing.