Christmas Tree Buying Guide…
Oliver Good has been buying Christmas Trees for specialist retailer Stubbings Nursery Ltd for 20 years. He sets out his 10 top tips for your fresh Christmas Tree purchase this coming December...
1. Think about Space
Both laterally and vertically – what space do you have? Don’t forget that your stand will add to height, as will your tree-top decoration… Try not to give in to the temptation to cut the top of the tree to make it fit…, it rarely works out well!
2. Buy from a Specialist
Garden Centres (especially independents like Stubbings Nursery) tend to offer the best choice and quality. Most supermarkets now sell trees, but rarely offer very premium grade quality as weight and size can cause logistical issues.
3. Needle Drop-Cut
Trees are a fresh product and will inevitably drop needles, the extent of which will depend on many factors. However, as a general rule of thumb ‘Fir’ varieties offer better needle retaining characteristics than ‘Spruce’ varieties.
4. A Natural Product
Don’t forget that Christmas Trees are grown outside. Radiators are their worst enemy so if possible turn off (or down) any radiators in close proximity to your chosen spot.
5. A Fresh Cut
Make sure you take a fresh cut off the base of the trunk (at least 1 inch) before you bring the tree indoors. Independent Garden Centres like Stubbings will offer this service, often free of charge.
6. Water, Water, Water
Your stand should offer the opportunity to water the tree much as you would with cut flowers. You’ll be amazed at how much a tree will drink in the first weeks indoors. Keep watering but note that the tree will drink less and less as the season progresses.
7. Stands
Alongside the ability to provide sufficient water, you should also check your stand is suitable for the size of tree you wish to buy. I tend to encourage customers to select a larger stand in order to future proof of their purchase. Ensuring you have the correct stand is especially important if you have young children or pets.
8. Smell
Some trees smell more ‘Christmassy’ than others, and this can vary from year to year, and from tree to tree. ‘Fraser Firs’ have become increasingly popular in recent years. They tend to be a little narrower than the popular ‘Nordman Fir’ variety but add a festive cheer with their stunning balsam aroma.
9. How Many Lights…?
Thankfully tree light quality has dramatically improved in recent years, alongside an increase in variety and features. Whilst individual preference is key, it is safe to assume circa 100 bulbs (or 5 metres) of traditional string lights for every 2 feet of the tree.
10. Recycle
There are alternatives to buying a cut tree. Pot grown trees are popular but do tend to be more expensive and heavier to handle. If you do buy a cut tree please ensure you check with your local council’s website for your nearest tree recycling drop-off point post-season.
With over 8 different varieties, in a range of cut and pot grown, and in every size to suit, Stubbings Nursery is one of the foremost suppliers of Christmas Trees in the Thames Valley.
Just 5 minutes from Junction 8/9 of the M4, it boasts a Café overlooking a stunning 18C listed walled garden and a beautiful Christmas Emporium.
They also offer a series of Christmas events – from ‘Breakfast with Santa’, to ‘Festive Afternoon Teas’. For more information visit www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk
