Cedar is not near as bad as pine. Cedar will last. X-mas trees of various pine are the ones you want to avoid. Sometimes we "thin out" the cedar branches a little to give some room and avoid a few hang ups. Try to place them as vertical as possible. I agree on the hedge and locust. Cherry works great.. sinks on its own but has a short life span in the water.

Take the time... take a kid.

Wardy