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How to choose your tree

Tree GuideThere are many unscrupulous Christmas tree sellers out there, looking to turn a fast buck. Follow our tips to buying a Christmas tree – and avoid being sold a turkey this year…

The very best grades of Christmas tree from top growers can cost up to five times as much as the
lower grades on the wholesale market. This explains the huge range of prices and provides an opportunity for some retailers to turn a very healthy profit if they can persuade customers to part with top money for a lower grade tree.

So, when you go to buy your tree, follow these simple tips:

  • Find a supplier with a good range of quality un-netted trees on show from which you can make an informed selection.
  • Ask how long ago the tree was cut and whether it has been given water since.
  • An old or drying out tree will show signs of needle wilt and drop even if its of the non-drop variety.
  • If you suspect the tree is drying out, run your fingers over a branch and check for needle springiness.
  • Look for a nice regular shape (not too fat at the bottom) four good sides, reasonable density of foliage and freedom from moss and lichen.
  • Buy a watertight stand and water regularly and your tree will last much longer.

We sell premium grade trees, but this year, in deference to the recession, we will be selling a limited number of non-premium grade, budget trees at our Richmond site, from December 6th. So come and buy or to see if you can spot the difference in quality!

Quick guide to our Christmas trees

Nordmann FirNordmann Fir

Britain’s current favourite. It is the classic, ‘non-drop’ tree with soft needles and a dependable Christmas tree shape.

 

Norway SpruceNorway Spruce

The traditional tree. It has smaller, spikier needles which it will drop. But, even if that means a bit of hoovering, it has a lovely piney smell.

 

Fraser FirFraser Fir

With its gorgeous, rich balsam fragrance, slender shape and silvery-green needles it is a frequent choice for those with limited space.

 

Noble FirNoble Fir

Expensive and hard to come by, the Noble Fir is a beautifully structured tree and smells wonderful. Its layered branches makes it a joy to decorate.

 

Spruce living treeLiving trees

If pot-grown and not simply cut out of the ground and shoved in a pot, these are a great idea, but they need to be treated like a sensitive house plant and kept away from radiators.