Finding the perfect Christmas tree

1. Measure up

Before you set off to choose your Christmas tree, measure the ceiling height of the room you've decided to display your tree in. Take into account that the tree will be on a stand and you will need space for your Christmas tree topper too!

You may also want to measure the width of the space available, so that branches don't overspill onto someone's lap whilst they enjoy a warm mince pie on the sofa.

Finally, note down the diameter of your stand so that you don't choose a tree with a trunk that's too thick.

2. Do your homework

There are a number of different Christmas tree varieties to choose from - find your perfect match by reading up in advance.

At Gardenia we stock Nordmann Firs for the following reasons:

• They are great quality, healthy, strong and durable trees from reputable growers
• They are known for their ability to stay intact if watered regularly and kept away from direct heat (eg. radiators)
• They are sustainably sourced in the UK and Denmark

Our Premium Quality Christmas trees are hand-selected for their shape and our Super-Grade Quality trees are hand-selected for their full shape and superb proportions.

3. Make a day of it

Choosing a tree is a great way to kick-off the festive season! Treat the kids to a hot chocolate or enjoy a cup of mulled wine with friends and pick out the bushiest, greenest, healthiest tree on offer.

To detect freshness, feel along the bottom branches - they should feel flexible and most of the needles should stay in tact. Sap shows that a tree is still fresh, so if it's sticky, that's a good sign.

4. Give your tree some TLC

At Gardenia, when a Christmas tree is chosen or delivered we cut 0.5 - 1 inches off the base of the trunk and recommend you do the same. You should then place your tree in to water as soon as possible. Make sure the tree, like you, always has plenty to drink throughout the festive season (rather than mulled wine, their preference is a daily dose of plain fresh water).

Direct sunlight will discolour the needles and dry it out, so try to avoid it as much as possible when choosing the position of your Christmas tree.

Heat sources (such as radiators) will also dry your tree out and cause the needles to drop.

5. Decorate, sit back, enjoy...

Decorating the tree is often one of the first Christmassy things you'll do, so put on some carols and have a good sing-along to get into the festive spirit. If you've followed our tips so far, your tree should stay looking lush and gorgeous right through to New Year!