Shortage of Nordmann fir trees

If you haven't got your Christmas tree yet, you could end up disappointed if you want a certain type, as there is a shortage of Nordmann fir, the kind that doesn't drop its needles.

The popular trees are exported from Denmark and the fall in the value of sterling means that Danish trees are also around a third more expensive than usual.
“There is a slight but significant shortage of Nordmann fir,” said Roger Hay, secretary of the British Christmas Tree Growers Association.
But British growers will be able to meet most of the UK demand of eight million plus trees, he said.
“It has been the best year any grower can remember for demand from garden centres and the like,” said Roger.
He added that sales of British grown trees had risen in recent years and attributed this to public awareness of the environmental benefits.

Potted tree warning
Think twice if you’re planning to buy a potted tree for Christmas. Consumer watchdog, Which? Gardening warns that you could be throwing your cash away.
They claim that potted trees (those that are lifted from the ground and potted up) are often planted in containers that are too small. In a study, researchers claim that people can expect to pay between £25 and £45 for potted Christmas trees and some found that they looked dull and lifeless after three weeks.
Container-grown trees performed best overall in the trial, but they are an expensive option, costing between £30 and £50.
Richard Gianfrancesco, head of research for Which? Gardening, said: “During the festive season, Christmas trees are the focal point of many households. No-one wants a tree that’s going to drop all its needles or look dead before Christmas is over.
“If you only want your tree to last for one Christmas, don’t bother spending money on a repotted or container-grown tree. Instead, pick up a healthy cut tree from a reputable grower. These trees performed almost as well as a container-grown tree and could save you a few pounds.”
Roger Hay from the Christmas Tree Growers Association commented: “The public are not buying container-grown trees only for their appearance this year, but with a view to planting in the garden and maybe re-use.
“Potted trees are essentially cut trees placed in a tub and provided they are well watered, there should be no difference in quality compared with a cut tree.”

Looking after your tree
• Stand your tree in a cool place, preferably in water, until you’re ready to decorate it.
• Cut an inch off the bottom of the stem to help the tree take up water.
• Place the tree in a bucket or purpose-made water holding stand.
• When it’s wedged in place, fill the container with pebbles or screwed up newspaper and top up with water daily.
• Ensure the tree is positioned away from direct heat and is in a cool room if possible.