Christmas is nearly upon us, and the official date for putting up decorations, according to tradition, is the first day of Advent, which is the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This year that falls on Sunday, 27th November 2022.
For many people choosing a real Christmas tree marks the start of the festivities. If you want to match your carbon footprint for an artificial tree compared to a real one, you’d need to keep it for at least ten years, so a real tree is a fantastic option.
It’s important that your tree remains fresh for the entire season especially as the first day of Advent is so early this year.
Choosing the tree
First, make sure the tree is the correct size, height and depth for the space. Make sure the area has a plug nearby for your Christmas lights and corners are ideal, as this will keep your tree safe from knocks and bumps and maximise the available floor space in the room. Take a tape measure with you when you purchase a tree and make sure you see it out of the netting. Not only will this enable you to check it over properly, but when left in netting it has limited air circulation and it can form a micro-climate which causes needles to drop at a faster rate. Choose a tree that meets strict freshness standards, and has a Grown in Britain logo, this is a non-profit organisation that champions home-grown forest products and plants.
Tree types
Nordmann Fir – Glossy needles, a well-balanced shape. The most popular choice as it loses few needles and will remain green.
Blue Spruce – Blue and silver tint.
Norway Spruce – A bushy classic shape with short needles and a pine scent. This is the most traditional Christmas tree.
Fraser Fir – A tall, slim tree with needles that don’t drop easily.
Most garden centres will offer a variety of types to choose from and will advise you on the best size/shape for your home.
When choosing your real Christmas tree, make sure it’s healthy and in good condition. Check the colour – you want a nice glossy green tree with no signs of brown. Hold the tree up a few inches from the ground and shake it gently – if lots of needles drop, it might be worth choosing an alternative.
Sustainability
A real Christmas tree is much more sustainable than an artificial tree. A real tree uses ten times fewer materials to produce and five times less energy. They are biodegradable and can be composted when no longer in use. If you buy British, you’ll have a smaller carbon footprint. Christmas tree plantations are environmentally friendly as they absorb C02 and provide jobs in rural areas.
Setting up your tree
When you get your tree home, take it out of the netting and shake it to get rid of loose needles. Saw half an inch from the bottom of the base to open pores and enable it to absorb more water. Place the tree in a bucket of water until ready to set it up inside. Use a container you can top up with water and check it every two days to keep it well hydrated.
When buying a real tree, it’s best to do this the first week of December, so it lasts longer. Don’t place it near a heat source such as a fireplace or radiator and try and put it where it can get some natural light during the day. Opt for LED lights that won’t dry out the branches. Add some florist food or full-fat lemonade to boost its ability to retain the needles. If well looked after it should last up to five or six weeks.
