If you haven’t bought your Christmas tree yet, don’t fret, we’ve found lots of real Christmas trees you can still buy online.
A genuine evergreen, with its familiar pine scent (and yes, a few dropped needles around the place), really ramps up that Christmassy feeling.
Real trees are also better for the environment than their plastic, artificial equivalents, which may end up in landfill. According to one study, your fake model would have to be reused for more than two decades for it to be greener than a real tree. Though always ensure you recycle your trusty tree after 6 December. You can find out more information on ways to discard of it properly here.
We know it can be quite difficult to decide on which Christmas tree would suit you (and your festive decor), so here’s our guide on buying a real Christmas tree online.
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What types of real Christmas trees are available?
The most popular varieties include the Norway Spruce, Blue Spruce, Nordmann Fir and the Noble Fir. Struggling to choose? Here’s some brief facts to get you started.
Nordmann Fir: This fir is said to be a good choice for people with allergies (it doesn’t have a strong smell) and it has softer needles too, which means it shouldn’t shed as much.
Norway Spruce: It’s best to keep a Norway Spruce outside, so this could be a good option for a front garden Christmas display. Its needles are known to be evenly spread, so they’re perfect for hanging fairy lights from.
Noble Fir: Scared your tree could topple over with too many decorations? The Noble Fir has strong branches, which are ideal for holding heavy ornaments.
Blue Spruce: Boasting a unique silvery, blue undertone, this is a great tree if you’d prefer something a bit different. It also has great needle retention.
If you’re limited on space, don’t fret – there are plenty of small options too, such as this potted Christmas tree. And we also love the increasing number of postable options that come with lights and decorations for the recipient to decorate themselves.
What do I need to think about before I buy?
You will need to consider several things before purchasing a real Christmas tree.
Think about the size – will it sit a little too snugly in your living space, or is there plenty of room for a tree topper? Measure the distance between the ceiling and the floor, to ensure it’s the perfect fit for your room.
For those of you who have pets, it’s very important you check that your real Christmas tree is non-toxic. Animal charity Blue Cross warns some real trees produce oils that can cause minor irritation to your animal’s mouth and stomach. Tree needles are bad for their stomach, too. A tree can also be a hazard if your cat decides to use it as a climbing post – it could topple over, so make sure you invest in a heavy base to keep it steady.
Experts have also warned that some trees may trigger asthma or allergies, so it’s best to do your research if you suffer from these types of health conditions.
How should I care for my real Christmas tree?
According to Josh Lyle, the founder of Christmas tree company Pines and Needles, you should treat a real Christmas tree in the same way you would with cut flowers: trim the end, put it in water and don’t put it next to a radiator.
“Cutting the bottom 3cms off your tree once you get it home is vital (or ask the seller to do it for you if you don’t have a saw at home), as is watering it,” Josh says. “Trees drink more than you do at Christmas – around three pints of water a day – but bigger trees will drink more so it’s worth checking daily to see if your tree needs a top up.”
Where should I buy my real Christmas tree online?
Of course, you can pick out your tree at a nursery or farm but for those of you with a busy schedule, ordering online is a quick and easy way to get it sent directly to your home.
Lots of retailers are getting in on the festive fun this year, but we’ve picked out some of our favourites.
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