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Finding the best real Christmas tree for the festive period is no easy matter. They come in different shapes to fit different homes, some are more strongly scented, some are less likely to drop their needles, some are more sustainable and some are just more spectacular. Overall, nine varieties have proved down the years to represent the best value.
For decades, the traditional Christmas tree in Britain has been the Norway spruce. But in recent years, sales of ‘non-drop’ varieties such as the Nordmann fir, Fraser fir and blue spruce have started to overtake it. Non-drop Christmas trees are best if you have children as they shed fewer spiky needles. Here’s our quick guide to the top nine. Read on for how to care for them, and for more detail on the differences between the varieties.
What are the best real Christmas trees? At a glance
- Best smelling real Christmas tree – Norway spruce
- Best non-drop real Christmas tree – Nordmann fir
- Best looking real Christmas tree – Blue spruce
- Best for decorating – Fraser fir
- Best pine real Christmas tree – Lodgepole pine
Where to buy a real Christmas tree
To be environmentally friendly, it is always best to buy locally. But there are plenty of online retailers who deliver nationwide, saving you the trouble of picking it up. Try Tree 2 My Door, Christmas Trees Direct or Send Me A Christmas Tree.
How long does a real Christmas tree last?
Provided the tree is healthy when bought and well looked after, it should survive for four to six weeks, according to the British Christmas Tree Growers Association.When buying, look for a tree with healthy needles that flex, rather than fall off when you handle them. Avoid trees with brown needles or that have been kept in the sun.
How to look after a real Christmas tree
When you put up the tree at home, saw another inch off the bottom to remove any dried resin that will prevent water absorption. Don’t forget to water it regularly: the more water it sits in, the longer it will last. Christmas trees last longer in lower temperatures, too – so keep them away from radiators if possible.
Below is our guide to the best real Christmas trees available in the UK, what makes them desirable and how to make them last – although it’s worth reading our guide to the best artificial Christmas trees too, since some are spectacularly realistic.
And while you’re preparing for Christmas, you may want to read our guides to the best beauty advent calendars, the best food advent calendars and the best Christmas gifts for women.
Best real Christmas trees
1. Norway Spruce
Best smelling Christmas tree
