“What is a flocked Christmas tree?” is a question that often comes up when decorating Christmas trees with artificial snow. In this guide, we explain the difference between flocked and frosted artificial Christmas trees, and answer commonly asked questions about them.
Frosted vs Flocked Trees
While frosted and flocked both mean to cover a tree with artificial snow, there are key differences between the two. The boughs on flocked Christmas trees appear heavily weighed down, similar to the snow on trees you’ll find in extremely high-altitude areas. On the other hand, Frosted trees look more like a soft dusting of snow has fallen onto the branches.
What Does a Flocked Christmas Tree Mean?
Flocked trees have clumps of artificial snow coating their branches, resembling real ones after an overnight snowfall. They also have more flocking than frosted Christmas trees, making the branches appear more covered with snow. You can buy pre-flocked artificial trees or flock your own to achieve this style.
If you have a flocked Christmas tree, keep your decorations minimal for visual balance. Hang glass baubles for added sparkle or choose bold colours for a dramatic effect. Coordinate the look throughout your home by incorporating flocked wreaths and garlands in various areas.
What Does Flocking a Christmas Tree Mean?
Flocking involves applying a heavy amount of faux snow to Christmas trees. The goal is to make them look like their natural counterparts on mountains during a winter storm. However, remember that flocking can fall off over time and leave bare patches in tree branches. It’s for this reason that we recommend using frosted artificial Christmas trees instead.
What Is a Frosted Christmas Tree?
Frosted Christmas trees have a lighter layer of artificial snow than flocked ones. They have natural-looking frosting at the branch tips, resembling freshly fallen snow. Although some snowflakes may fall off over the years, it does so evenly without leaving large patches. Go for a frosted Christmas tree if you want a simpler and more versatile evergreen.
Frosted Christmas Decorations & Accessories
Complement your snow-frosted Christmas tree with matching greenery. Think frosted garlands draped across your fireplace mantel or a frosted wreath and potted trees on your front door or patio. You can also put frosted tabletop trees on the console table to liven up your foyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some of the most common queries about flocked or frosted Christmas trees.
Are Flocked and Frosted Christmas Trees Messy?
Pre-frosted and pre-flocked Christmas trees are less messy than DIY-flocked ones. Although some faux snow may fall off over the years, proper care and storage can make their beauty last longer. Read our guide to learn more.
How Long Do Frosted and Flocked Christmas Trees Last?
Real trees that have been flocked and frosted can only last up to 2-4 weeks, while artificial ones can last for years if stored properly in a cool, dry place during the off-season.
How Do You Prevent Flocked and Frosted Trees From Yellowing?
One of the best ways to prevent the yellowing of flocked and frosted trees is to clean them before storage. This will lessen the chances of dust and dirt accumulation, which is the main reason artificial snow turns yellow. Follow the instructions below:
- After taking down your tree lights and decorations, gently clean your Christmas tree with a feather duster or clean cloth.
- Wrap the branch tips with gift tissue paper before putting the tree inside its storage bag.
- Choose a cool, dry area to keep your tree where it will not be damaged by direct sunlight or water.
Are Flocked Christmas Trees Still Popular?
Flocked trees have been around since the mid-1900s and haven’t gone out of style. As long as people want to bring the magic of a snowy forest indoors, you can expect to see more of them in the years to come.
Enchant loved ones with Balsam Hill’s frosted Christmas trees this season. Click the button below to browse our full selection.
Learn More About Frosted Christmas Trees
Read these next for more guides and decorating tips on Balsam Hill’s frosted Christmas trees: