If you're planning to cut down your Christmas tree this year, here's what you need to know:
First things first, when it comes to selecting the perfect tree for the best price in the UK, it really is a case of shop around. While a survey found that over two-thirds of Brits prefer an artificial tree, millions will still be opting for real ones this month.
While the Nordmann fir remains the most popular choice among those who prefer a real tree, businesses are now offering these at relatively low prices – with some supermarkets selling them for under £15. It's worth noting that the best deals can vary depending on where you live and which local retailers are competing with each other.
Bigger trees are gaining popularity as people want statement centrepieces in their homes. On the other hand, "mini trees" have become increasingly popular for decorating multiple rooms, desks, or for gifting to friends and family.
The price of real Christmas trees is influenced by several factors including the region you live in and the individual retailer's pricing strategy. As Russell Parkins from the British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA) explains, "An average 6ft British Christmas tree takes about ten years to grow and so the cost of a tree today reflects a decade of production costs."
Parkins adds that while business costs have increased in recent years, they don't necessarily affect prices. As with all sectors, it is down to individual growers and their pricing strategies.
In terms of types, the Nordmann fir remains the top choice – mainly due to its slow needle drop rate compared to Norway spruce. However, for those who prefer a stronger scent, Fraser firs are also worth considering.
Mark Sage from B&Q notes that a real tree brings a unique atmosphere and traditional feel to your home during the festive season. "We recommend choosing the Nordmann fir if you want minimal mess," he says. He also advises customers looking for fragrance to opt for the Fraser fir, which has an excellent citrus-cedar scent.
If you plan on picking out your own tree or have a garden where you can plant one afterwards, Andy Little from British Garden Centres recommends buying a container-grown tree. These trees are available in many of their 73 stores and start at £30 for small trees.
However, it's also worth noting that big supermarkets often offer cut-price deals on Christmas trees – with Tesco selling half-price ones comparable to garden centre prices at £50-£60 and Asda offering ones for £15.
For those who want to save even more, the big discount retailers Aldi and Lidl are now charging £14 for a medium Nordmann tree, while Ikea offers a £20 voucher when buying a Christmas tree from £29.
Before making your final decision, it's worth measuring the space where you plan to put the tree. As Little advises, "You don't want to trim branches at home and lose that lovely natural shape."
First things first, when it comes to selecting the perfect tree for the best price in the UK, it really is a case of shop around. While a survey found that over two-thirds of Brits prefer an artificial tree, millions will still be opting for real ones this month.
While the Nordmann fir remains the most popular choice among those who prefer a real tree, businesses are now offering these at relatively low prices – with some supermarkets selling them for under £15. It's worth noting that the best deals can vary depending on where you live and which local retailers are competing with each other.
Bigger trees are gaining popularity as people want statement centrepieces in their homes. On the other hand, "mini trees" have become increasingly popular for decorating multiple rooms, desks, or for gifting to friends and family.
The price of real Christmas trees is influenced by several factors including the region you live in and the individual retailer's pricing strategy. As Russell Parkins from the British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA) explains, "An average 6ft British Christmas tree takes about ten years to grow and so the cost of a tree today reflects a decade of production costs."
Parkins adds that while business costs have increased in recent years, they don't necessarily affect prices. As with all sectors, it is down to individual growers and their pricing strategies.
In terms of types, the Nordmann fir remains the top choice – mainly due to its slow needle drop rate compared to Norway spruce. However, for those who prefer a stronger scent, Fraser firs are also worth considering.
Mark Sage from B&Q notes that a real tree brings a unique atmosphere and traditional feel to your home during the festive season. "We recommend choosing the Nordmann fir if you want minimal mess," he says. He also advises customers looking for fragrance to opt for the Fraser fir, which has an excellent citrus-cedar scent.
If you plan on picking out your own tree or have a garden where you can plant one afterwards, Andy Little from British Garden Centres recommends buying a container-grown tree. These trees are available in many of their 73 stores and start at £30 for small trees.
However, it's also worth noting that big supermarkets often offer cut-price deals on Christmas trees – with Tesco selling half-price ones comparable to garden centre prices at £50-£60 and Asda offering ones for £15.
For those who want to save even more, the big discount retailers Aldi and Lidl are now charging £14 for a medium Nordmann tree, while Ikea offers a £20 voucher when buying a Christmas tree from £29.
Before making your final decision, it's worth measuring the space where you plan to put the tree. As Little advises, "You don't want to trim branches at home and lose that lovely natural shape."