If you have a small space, it can be difficult to find a Christmas tree that fits. The most obvious choice is to go with a tabletop tree, but if your tastes run beyond the artificial options, there are plenty of real trees that will work well in small spaces.

 Regardless, there are several types of trees that should be avoided if you have a small space:

Fraser fir trees

These trees grow very tall, which means they will take up lots of space in your house. They also tend to shed their needles easily and can be difficult to decorate (you won’t be able to put as many lights on it).

Large Trees

If your tree is too large, it will overpower the room. For example, if your tree is more than 8 feet tall, it will likely reach the ceiling of your living room or dining room. It will also block light from entering the room and limit where other decorations can be placed around the tree. If you want to use a large tree in a small space, consider using a slim artificial tree instead.

Live Trees

Live trees require more maintenance than artificial ones do because they need water and sunlight every day or two during their first few weeks after being cut down from their natural habitat. Live trees also have roots that take up valuable floor space in your home until they’re planted outside after Christmas Day passes by. Consider purchasing an artificial tree instead if you’re short on time or money to care for a live one properly during its first few weeks after being cut down from its forest home.

Fronds

Fronds are popular for their lush appearance, but they take up quite a bit of floor space. If you don’t have room for them, consider skipping this type of tree altogether.

Coniferous trees

Conifers such as fir, pine, spruce and cedar can be beautiful, but they take up too much space in the average living room or bedroom. The needles cling to clothing and carpeting, so they’re not ideal for families with pets or children who play on the floor. If you insist on using one of these types of trees, make sure it’s at least 6 feet tall so everyone can enjoy it from a distance.

Evergreens

Evergreens are another popular choice for holiday decorating — but they’re also unruly when it comes to size. If you live in an apartment or condo where every inch counts, evergreen branches may overwhelm the space around them (and possibly even block doorways).

Giant Conifers

Giant conifers are the tallest trees available, but they don’t take up much space at all. This means that they can fit into even the smallest of spaces. However, they are very difficult to decorate and tend to be very expensive.

Whole Trees

Whole trees can be extremely expensive and difficult to transport home if you live far away from where they were harvested. If you aren’t near an area that has fresh-cut trees available or if you don’t want to buy one from another person’s yard, then it might be best to avoid whole trees altogether this year.