WITH Christmas just around the corner, some Brits have already started to deck the halls – but when is the right time to buy a tree?
One expert thinks he’s found the sweet spot for real tree buying that will mean your shining shrubs last into the new year.
Most supermarkets have begun stocking their shelves with fake and real trees alike – despite still being six weeks away from the big day.
Speaking to the BBC , Mick Walker, from Bolton Christmas Trees, said: “It might last until the beginning of Christmas, but it won’t last the full holiday.
He recommends putting your tree up on December 17.
The tree expert said: “If it was me, I’d put it up a week before Christmas eve, [and it will] last straight through until New Year.”
He also warns it’s how you take care of your tree that is the key to its survival.
He said: “Keep watering it, spraying the leaves, keeping it cool, keeping it away from radiators in the coolest spot in the room.”
Walker added potted trees have the best chance of survival, and others are at risk of “sagging”.
According to the Royal Horticultural Society, a good tree will last around four weeks when taken care of properly.
It also advises to leave your natural tree outside as close up to the Christmas as you can manage – this will prolong its lifetime.
Forestry also recommends sawing off around 1.2cm off the base of your tree after buying it.
This way your tree will be able to absorb the maximum amount of water.
This comes as stores across the country have begun offering – both artificial and real.
is set to launch its range next week, with its real medium Nordman fir cut Christmas tree going on sale for a cool £16.99.
You can also upgrade for £10 more with the large version, which is a snip at £26.99.
Meanwhile, ‘s half-price tree sale has already started, with prices as low as £17.50.
Customers can choose from fresh-cut, pot-grown or Tesco Finest trees, all of which are half-price for Clubcard members until December 15.
Hugh Kenney-Herbert, Tesco Christmas Tree Buyer, said: “Our half-price Christmas trees proved incredibly popular with customers last year, so we’ve delighted to be bringing in 30% more for .
“With real trees starting from just £17.50, we hope the offer will help customers find their perfect tree, as well as spread the cost of Christmas and get into the festive spirit for less.”
