Can you believe that Christmas is just around the corner? If you’ve been out to the shops lately, you’ve probably noticed malls and stores adorned with Christmas decorations and cheer. You’ve probably also spotted some great gifts to give to your loved ones this year. But have you thought about your Christmas tree?

Now is the perfect time to decide if you’d like a faux or live Christmas tree in your home this year. If you’re anything like us, you’d much prefer the idea of a real Christmas tree. There’s just something about its smell and rich green hues that stir up all kinds of sentimental feelings and nostalgia.

If you’re choosing a real live Christmas tree this year, there are some things to consider before making your purchase. We’ve put together the ultimate guide that you can follow when purchasing your tree to make for a magical Christmas season. Keep reading for our top tips!

Choose the right spot for your tree first 

Before you order online or go shopping for your ideal real Christmas tree, you first need to decide where in your home you plan on displaying it.

The location of your tree will be the deciding factor in terms of the size of the tree you purchase.

You’ll want to avoid any spots near heat sources, such as fireplaces, vents, and even sun-drenched windows. Additionally, you’ll want to choose an area with low foot traffic to avoid anyone bumping into the tree.

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect spot, you’ll need to whip out your trusty measuring tape and measure the space you’re working with. Consider leaving some space between the top of the tree and your ceiling, especially if you’re planning on using a topper at the tip of your tree.

Determine your species                              

Here’s where things tend to get a little more technical. You need to decide which species of Christmas tree would work best in your home and the environment in which it will be displayed.

For example, if you have children, pines and furs will be your best bet as they have softer needles than spruce trees with sharper needles.

A Balsam fir, for example, has a thin spike-like top, which is perfect if you plan on setting an angel or star ornament at the top of your tree. It also has a lovely rich, evergreen scent to fill your space.

On the other hand, a Fraser fir has short dark green needles that don’t tend to shed with thick branches that will hold most decorations. It has a far subtler fragrance than the Balsam fir.

A Nordmann fir, Britain’s most popular Christmas tree, has big soft and rounded needles, which are perfect if you have young children or pets in your home. It also typically doesn’t shed many needles and is quite easy to decorate. Its light fragrance is ideal for allergy sufferers.

Decide on freshly cut, potted, or pot-grown

Our range of real Christmas trees, which you can pre-order online, come in various options, including freshly cut and pot-grown firs.

Before making your purchase, you’ll need to decide which option is best for you.

Our freshly cut trees are grown in a field and then cut above the ground. It should last five weeks or more, but it will require an upright stand to display it in your home.

Moreover, our pot-grown range is – you guessed it – grown in pots from a young age. They will need to be taken out into the fresh air for 24 hours every seven to 10 days. The best part is that it can be planted in your garden after Christmas, and it will continue to grow.

Caring for your live Christmas tree 

Now that you know the size, species, and variety of tree you’re going to choose, you’re probably wondering how to care for it while it’s in your home to get the most out of your tree.

Care for a freshly cut tree

A freshly cut tree will need to be placed in water in a sturdy stand that holds at least three litres of water. Plenty of clean water is all that’s needed to keep the tree fresh, and you should check the water level daily. It’s a good idea to take this type of tree down before it dries out so that you have fewer dry needles to tidy up. You can add the tree to your compost pile after Christmas.

Care for a potted tree

A potted tree will have roots that can absorb water, but this water will evaporate quickly once the tree is in your home. For this reason, it’s a good idea to refill the water in the pot regularly. Place the pot of the tree on a saucer to hold excess water that it can draw from throughout the day. After the festive season, you can continue to grow this tree in its pot or re-pot it into a larger pot with proper compost.

Care for a pot-grown tree

If you purchase a pot-grown tree, you will need to keep it in a cool yet light spot. It would need to be watered regularly but not over-watered. If the soil is too dry, needles will start to fall off the tree. If you are over-watering, the roots will start to rot. Choose how to water this tree by feeling the soil in the pot. You can plant the tree in your garden after the festivities to enjoy it for years to come.