With Halloween done and dusted, those in the festive state of mind may have turned to Christmas planning.
Some may cringe about even thinking about Christmas in November, but getting everything arranged in preparation for the festive season this month would not be a bad idea.
Luckily, the plant experts at Flowercard have revealed the best date to buy a real Christmas tree and how to keep it in top form over the festive season.
They say the exact day you buy a tree is one of the key factors in how long it lasts. Plus, it's worth considering how long you intend to keep a Christmas tree around.
If looked after properly, a Christmas tree can last up to six weeks.
Liam Lapping from Flowercard advised: "The day you buy your Christmas tree is one of the most important decisions if you want to make sure it’s still intact throughout the festive season.
"If you take your Christmas tree down straight after New Year's Eve then you should buy your tree on November 28.
"However, if you take your Christmas tree down on the Twelfth Night then you should buy your tree on December 2. Obviously if you’re planning on having an artificial tree you can put that up whenever you like.
"If you want to follow tradition, then the traditional date to put your Christmas tree up is the afternoon of Christmas Eve, however, we definitely think we need to get in the Christmas spirit before then.
"Typically real Christmas trees last five to six weeks if they are looked after properly, so it’s important you buy your Christmas tree at the right time to avoid a sad-looking, needleless tree for Father Christmas to leave the presents under.”
Here are five expert tips from Flowercard to make sure your real Christmas tree makes it to December 25:
How to keep a Christmas tree healthy and looking good
1. Choose the best looking tree
Make sure you come home with a tree in top shape! Before purchasing, give it a big shake to see if any needles are dropping off. Also make sure the needles are green and shiny.
2. Trim the trunk
When you get your Christmas tree home, the first thing you should do is cut about 3cm off the trunk - this way the tree can drink lots of water through it’s fresh cut as it opens up the bark. If you didn’t do this the sap could have blocked the trunk meaning it wouldn’t be able to soak up anymore water.
3. Perfect positioning
Where you decide to place your tree is one of the most important factors to making sure it makes it to the big day. Make sure it’s away from any heat sources such as log burners, open fireplaces and radiators, otherwise your tree will dry out faster. Likewise, keep your tree away from any draughts as they don’t like change.
4. Invest in a stand
If you want your tree to live a healthy life, invest in a Christmas tree stand which will help make sure it has enough water.
5. Make sure your tree drinks as much as you.
Make sure your Christmas tree is topped up with water, as if the water dips below the tree’s trunk, the sap will re-seal the bark meaning it won’t be able to drink anymore. 3 pints (of water) a day should be sufficient.
