We get a live tree from a local farm every year and they're pines. The branch tips are not very "sturdy" , so yes we always just lay the light on the branches, sometimes we have to go more towards the trunk so the branches won't sag under the weight of the lights. :)

sweet-tea, do the lights stay in place during windy days?

Well, I was referring primary to our "inside" tree, pines are just rather flimsy-ish. We have in the past put lights on pines and cedars outside this way as well, I've never noticed a problem with them blowing off.

But I have never heard of separating the light strands as you mentioned to go on the branch tipâ¦.maybe you're a step-a-head of me!

Get green floral wire. Just snip in short pieces and twist on where needed. You can pick up at a garden center or maybe Home Depot.

I don't think you're supposed to use anything metal with metal in it, like floral wire. try plastic zip ties. I got some specifically made for christmas lights at Lowes.