How to Choose the Right Size Real Christmas Tree for Your Home in London

With the festive season fast approaching, it's time to start thinking about decorating your home for Christmas, and there's no better way to bring that festive cheer than with a beautiful real Christmas tree. London offers a wealth of options for picking the perfect tree, from the iconic Nordmann Fir to the traditional Norway Spruce. But how do you choose the right size tree for your home? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the factors you need to consider when selecting your ideal Christmas tree, and offer tips to ensure your tree stays fresh and beautiful throughout the season.

1. Know Your Space

Before you set out to purchase your Christmas tree, it's essential to measure the available space in your home. The first thing to consider is the height of your ceiling. Most homes have ceiling heights ranging from 8 to 12 feet, so you'll need to choose a tree that's a few inches shorter than your ceiling height. This will ensure there's enough space for your tree topper and prevent your tree from scraping the ceiling.

Next, think about the width of the space where your tree will be placed. Christmas trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it's crucial to choose one that's proportionate to the space. To get a better idea of the size of the tree you need, mark the area where the tree will stand using tape or a piece of string, and measure the width of the marked area.

2. Select the Right Species

When it comes to Christmas trees, there are many species to choose from, each with its unique characteristics. The Nordmann Fir is one of the most popular choices, thanks to its lush, glossy foliage and excellent needle retention. This tree has a beautiful symmetrical shape and emits a subtle, pleasant scent, making it an ideal choice for an elegant and fragrant holiday display.

Another popular choice for a real Christmas tree is the Norway Spruce, which is known for its strong, traditional Christmas scent and attractive conical shape. However, it's worth noting that the Norway Spruce tends to lose its needles more quickly than the Nordmann Fir, so it's essential to take extra care in maintaining its freshness.

3. Visit Local Tree Farms and Retailers

The area boasts a variety of Christmas tree farms and retailers, offering an array of tree species and sizes. Visiting these locations allows you to see the trees up close and ensure you're selecting the perfect tree for your home.

Popular options include:

• Pines and Needles: With multiple locations across London, Pines and Needles offers a vast selection of premium Christmas trees. They also provide additional services such as tree delivery and set-up, making the process convenient and hassle-free.

• The Christmas Forest: The Christmas Forest is another popular option, with several locations throughout the city. They offer a wide variety of tree species, including the Nordmann Fir, and pride themselves on their sustainable practices and commitment to planting a new tree for each one they sell.

4. Check for Freshness

When selecting your tree, it's crucial to ensure that it's fresh and healthy. A fresh tree will have a vibrant green colour, with no signs of browning or wilting. Gently run your hand along the branches – the needles should feel pliable and not fall off easily. Additionally, a fresh Nordmann Fir will have a subtle, pleasant scent that will add to the festive atmosphere in your home.

5. Consider the Shape

Not all Christmas trees are created equal, so take your time to find the perfect shape for your home. The Nordmann Fir is known for its symmetrical, pyramid shape, making it a popular choice for a well-balanced and visually appealing display. When browsing for your ideal tree, look for one with full, evenly spaced branches and minimal gaps. A tree with a straight trunk will also be easier to set up and maintain throughout the season.

6. Ensure Easy Transport and Set-up

Once you've selected the perfect Christmas tree for your London home, it's essential to transport it carefully and set it up correctly. Many tree farms and retailers offer delivery services, which can be particularly helpful if you don't have access to a suitable vehicle.

When setting up your tree, use a sturdy and stable tree stand that can accommodate the weight and size of your chosen tree. Ensure that the stand can hold an adequate amount of water, as a well-watered tree is crucial for maintaining freshness. The Nordmann Fir is particularly well-suited to staying fresh throughout the season, but it still requires proper care and attention.

7. Caring for Your Tree

To keep your tree looking its best throughout the festive season, follow these simple care tips:

• As soon as you bring your tree home, cut approximately half an inch off the trunk's base. This will help the tree absorb water more efficiently.

• Place your tree in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and radiators. Excessive heat can cause your tree to dry out and lose its needles more rapidly.

• Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times, checking the water level daily. A well-watered Nordmann Fir will retain its needles better, ensuring a beautiful and fragrant display all season long.

8. Disposing of Your Tree Responsibly

Once the festive season comes to an end, it's essential to dispose of your Christmas tree responsibly. Many London boroughs offer Christmas tree recycling services, where your tree will be chipped and turned into mulch for use in local parks and green spaces. Alternatively, some farms and retailers, such as Pines and Needles, provide a collection and recycling service for a small fee. By recycling your tree, you're helping to reduce waste and support the local environment.

Choosing the right size real Christmas tree for your home is an essential part of creating a magical festive atmosphere. By considering factors such as your available space, tree species, and shape, you can find the perfect tree to suit your needs. The Nordmann Fir is a popular choice for Londoners, thanks to its beautiful appearance and excellent needle retention. By following our tips on tree selection, transport, set-up, and care, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a stunning and fragrant Christmas tree display that lasts throughout the holiday season.