Christmas is just around the corner and you are probably very excited to decorate your home and make it ready for the festive season. Here in the UK, around 8 million Christmas trees are sold every year. There are also a lot of options to choose from so figuring out what specific tree to pick might be a daunting task for you. If you are looking for tips on how to find the perfect Christmas tree, stick around and we’ll show you how.
We will teach you how to find the perfect tree for your home and how to take care of it properly.
If you prefer the real thing, be familiar with the types of fir that are available
The most popular variety in the UK is Nordmann Fir. Its popularity can be attributed to the fact that it is dark green with glossy leaves, strong, bushy, conical in shape. The needle drop is minimal too.
If you are the type who prefers to put up the Christmas tree early in the holiday season, this is the variety you should go for. It can last until January if it is adequately hydrated throughout the festive season.
Another famous Christmas tree variety is the Norway Spruce. It was first popularised by Prince Albert when he brought one at Windsor Castle in 1841.
A lot of people pick the Norway Spruce because of its classic Christmas tree aroma. Just like the Nordmann Fir, the Norway Spruce has a lovely conical shape.
If you are looking for an aromatic Christmas tree with great value, the Norway Spruce is just for you! The only downside to this variety is the fact that the needles tend to drop easily. If you have kids and pets, you’d be better off staying away from this variety.
If you prefer a variety with very minimal needle drop, another good option is the Lodgepole Pine. It has a strong pine aroma, yellow-green leaves, straight branches that go upwards and irregular shape
If you’re going for a luxurious feel, the Noble Fir is the ultimate option. It is a chunky tree with gorgeous blue or silver grey tinged needles and strong branches. If you’re the type who wants to fill your tree with many, or perhaps heavy, decorations, this is the best option for you. This variety is also not very easy to find so if you spot one, be quick and take your pick!
Other popular varieties include Blue Spruce, Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, Scots Pine and Serbian Spruce.
Real Christmas Trees or Artificial Christmas Trees: What do you prefer?
Both real trees and artificial trees come with their own set of pros and cons but when it comes to real Christmas trees, you cannot deny the fact that it gives a lovely pine aroma and luscious look. Other than that, there are lots of benefits if you will go for the real ones.
Real trees use fewer manufacturing materials and lesser energy as compared to artificial Christmas trees. Since they are biodegradable, they can be composted and recycled after the holiday season is over. If you buy a locally grown tree, it means that you have a smaller carbon footprint, making it a more sustainable option than the plastic ones.
Real Christmas trees are renewable resources. Whenever one tree is harvested, at least one tree is also planted. In some plantations, two trees are planted for every single tree that is harvested. Growing them is also beneficial for the environment.
However artificial trees do have their benefits too. The cost is a big factor, you may pay more at the outset for the artificial tree, however this tree will then last you for many years at no further expense. The convenience and longevity, you do not have to worry about watering an artificial tree and will not have to deal with needles dropping. If you like to get your Christmas tree up early then you know that it will last for the festive season. They are also great if you have a member of your family who suffers with allergies.
How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Tree
Now that you know what the popular firs are, it’s time to finally pick the perfect tree for your home.
To get started, its a good idea to measure the height of the room and determine how tall and wide you want your tree to be. If buying real you want to buy a freshly cut tree if possible. To determine its freshness, brush your fingers gently on the needles. If there’s a lot of needle shedding, it’s probably not a fresh one.
Pick a tree with shiny and glossy leaves. Make sure it’s not pre-wrapped too. This will allow you to see the shape of the entire tree and ensure that the branches are not forced into an upward position. Trees that are left in netting tend to drop their needles quicker and decompose at a faster rate.
To ensure that your tree meets the standards of freshness, look for the ‘Grown in Britain’ logo too.
As soon as you get home, remove the netting and allow the branches to settle down. Saw about half an inch off its base before placing it in a well watered stand. The tree will be needing lots of it throughout the holiday season.
TOP TIP: When decorating your tree, hang the biggest ornaments on large branches while the smaller ones take the more delicate twigs. When you’re ready to add the Christmas lights, work your way from the bottom to the top and its always best to do this first.
How to Take Care of Your Christmas Tree
First of all, always keep the tree trunk immersed in water. Second, water it every other day. You might be surprised to know that it can consume about 1 to 2 litres of water each day.
Christmas trees thrive in cool weather so make sure to place them away from fires or radiators. Turn off your Christmas lights before you go to sleep. Keep it away from bowls of fruit because fruit gives off ethylene gas. This can affect your tree and make it shed its needles faster.
