O Christmas Tree
The centrepiece of the festive season, the Christmas tree holds a pivotal role in holiday décor. From the delightful aroma of freshly cut trees to the convenience of potted ones, selecting the ideal tree is crucial for creating a magical and authentic Christmas atmosphere.
The Christmas tree is undoubtedly the star of the show when it comes to festive decor. It not only sets the tone for your holiday aesthetic but also anchors most of your seasonal events. Choosing the perfect tree can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a beautiful and sustainable tree in your home.
If you are someone who loves the smell and feel of a real tree, then a freshly cut tree is the best option for you. Nothing beats the experience of driving to a garden centre with your loved ones and picking out your perfect real tree. Once the festivities are over, your real tree can be used to create a garden space for wildlife to shelter in winter. Remove the branches as close to the main stem as possible and make small piles with them on the soil, under shrubs, trees or hedges. You can also cut your tree’s trunk into sections for a mini log pile that will help create a habitat for small animals and bugs.
If you have limited space, a Slim Nordmann Fir is a great option. This tree is grown specifically to have a compact, narrow shape, which makes it perfect for smaller spaces while retaining the classic full foliage. The Nordmann Fir loses very few needles, so it should stay green and full with the right care. If you have a large space and want a truly magical winter wonderland vibe, then the Premium Nordmann Fir is the perfect choice. This tree has a full, broad conical shape, making it great for hanging a lot of decorations, and with deep luscious green needles and a height perfect for high ceilings, it’s sure to add a touch of elegance to any room.
Pot-grown trees are becoming increasingly popular since they can be transferred to the garden after Christmas as a permanent fixture, and even brought back in next year. If you decide to plant your tree outside, make sure to leave plenty of room around them as they can grow very large! The pot-grown Nordmann Fir is a great option for those with smaller spaces, such as flats, bungalows, or even balconies. These trees can be beautifully decorated with lights and baubles to create some festive magic, or for a more rustic look, they can also be left bare and sat on a table or in the hallway. To keep your pot-grown tree healthy, remember to keep their soil damp and keep them cool.
The Blue Spruce, with its distinctive silvery blue needles, is an ideal choice for a Christmas decor theme leaning towards cool tones and jewel hues. Ideal for smaller spaces, it effortlessly generates a seasonal ambiance. With limited space to decorate, there's ample room for creative and experimental ornamentation, providing the perfect chance to explore fresh looks or colour schemes.
When selecting your tree, it’s important to measure the height, depth, and width of your ideal Christmas tree space to avoid any added stress when you get the tree home. Bring a tape measure to the store and double-check the dimensions to save you a return trip if you find that your tree is too big or small when home. Don’t worry if your tree is a little too big – you can always trim it to fit the space. Additionally, make sure the space you choose has a plug point nearby for your lights, and corners are ideal as it will keep your tree safe from knocks and bumps.
Caring for your real tree is crucial to maintain its beauty and keep it looking fresh throughout the season. Once you have your cut tree home, keep it outside in a sheltered area, cut 1” off the base of the trunk and stand in a bucket of water until you are ready to bring it indoors, this will help reduce needle drop. Place your tree in its water holding stand and ensure the water reservoir is replenished on a regular basis.
Choosing the perfect Christmas tree can be a fun and exciting experience if you have the right knowledge. Whether you prefer a real or pot-grown tree, there are many options available to suit your space and style. Remember to measure your space, choose a tree with the right shape and size, and care for it properly to keep it looking fresh and beautiful throughout the season. Happy decorating!