WHETHER you're fighting the urge to whip out all your decorations in November or prefer to wait until the last possible moment, there's no denying that when you put up your Christmas tree is a fiercely debated issue.
That said, if you're investing in a real tree this festive season then you're better off holding out as long as possible to ensure it looks its very best on Christmas Day.
Cut Christmas trees can last anywhere between four and six weeks if you give it up to three pints of water a day and keep it away from heat.
Although it may look like the perfect festive scene to place your tree by a fireplace or radiator, heat makes it harder for trees to retain their moisture which shortens their lifespan and results in them losing needles.
Unless you want to keep your tree up until 12th night (6 January), anytime from now is ideal to buy your tree.
However, if you're wanting to keep yours up until early January then it's safer to wait until the first week of December.
Top Tips for Maintaining your Christmas Tree
- Choose a healthy tree – when you're picking out your tree, make sure the needles are still glossy and give it a good shake to see if they're already dropping off
- Keep your tree in a stand or pot that holds water to extend its life
- Saw the bottom the trunk to help it absorb water
- Top up the water everyday
- Ensure the tree is kept away from fires and radiators – heat makes it harder for them to hold absorb moisture which will result in them losing needles
Source: Somerlap
Alternatively, a living potted Christmas tree has a much shorter lifespan and only lasts 12 days indoors.
So if you're thinking of investing in a potted fir tree this Christmas, then you're better off not buying one until a week or two before the big day.
Other than picking the tallest or bushiest fir you can find, other important things to consider when buying a tree is whether the majority of needles are still pliable and green.
As heat can cause trees to dry out easily, another top tip is to buy one that's been left in the shade rather than the ones typically at the front and more exposed to sunshine.
For more fun, festive ideas, this woman made an incredible Christmas wreath using just coat hangers from Poundland – and people are seriously impressed.
And mums are raving about this "baragin" B&Q Christmas tree and say it's just as lifelike as a real one.
Plus Pandora has launched Frozen charms including Olaf and Elsa and they're perfect Christmas presents for Disney fans.
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