Brits turn their back on fake trees

A garden boss is warning there could be a shortage of potted Christmas trees as Britons turn their backs on the artificial variety and pick the real thing.

Chris Bonnett, who runs GardeningExpress.co.uk, has seen a rise in the number of shoppers buying potted trees as they look towards more sustainable options.

He’s selling hundreds of trees a day, despite it still being November, with potted trees outselling artificial by around 200 to one on the site.

Chris says Britons are turning their back on artificial trees as they look for greener alternatives that will last for years.

Real Christmas trees have a smaller carbon footprint than the artificial alternative.  A two-metre artificial tree has a carbon footprint of 40kg, which is more than ten times that of a real tree.

And after a few years with poor growing conditions, he says optimum conditions this year means trees have grown well and are of a high quality.

The rooted trees are often dug from a plantation and planted in a pot and once the holidays are over, can be replanted in the garden.

Founder of Gardening Express, Chris Bonnett said: “Sustainability is the order of the day this Christmas along with saving money.

“Potted trees tick both the sustainable and money save box massively – they’re a living plant which can be replanted in the garden and they’ll cut Christmas expenditure as you can reuse year after year.

“We’re beginning to see a bit of a backlash against artificial trees. Although they can be reused for many years, the materials that go into them and their carbon footprint doesn’t help make them a sustainable option.

“Real, living trees are definitely the way to go. If they have a root, they can be replanted. If they don’t, then they can easily be recycled.

“If you do opt for a potted tree, the tricky bit is deciding which variety is right for you. They all have different qualities and will work inside and outside your home.”

Chris continued: “We’ve had a few tough years with poor growing conditions but this year is looking good. Conditions have been good, sales are buoyant and people want a real tree as they’re Christmas centre-piece. Despite money still being tight, it’s the one treat they’re not prepared to forego.”

Here’s the GardeningExpress guide on potted Christmas trees:

Traditional potted Norway Spruce

This traditional tree is a lovely shape for decorating and hanging coloured Christmas lights. It has a lovely scent and feel that screams Christmas. The needles are mid to dark green and the branches strong – ideal for heavier decorations. This will work in your home or outside on the patio, balcony or guarding the front door. Once Christmas is over, you can re-pot or plant in the garden. It will grow to around ten feet in ten years.

Fresh potted non-drop Nordmann Fir

This is a high quality, non-drop fir tree ideal for the home. It’s one of the most popular trees in the UK with its glossy, deep green-blue needles, symmetrical shape and strong branches. The needles are shiny and soft to touch – great for families with young children.

Blue Spruce

The ‘Baby Blue’ variety of Blue Spruce has a subtle pine fragrance and beautiful grey-green needles. This tree will hold its shape and retain its needles well during the festive season. Once out in the garden, the Blue Spruce will thrive. Expect it to grow to around ten feet tall.

Potted Norway Spruce – Wills Dwarf

This small version of the traditional Norway Spruce is a great choice to decorate the entrance to your home. One either side of the doorway will give a very festive feel. Let the children plant this mini tree in the garden after Christmas where it should grow to between six and ten feet tall.

 Lavender Christmas Trees

For something completely different, consider a pair of lavender Christmas trees. These beautifully scented plants have been pruned to the shape of a festive tree. As soon as spring arrives, plant out into the garden and prune back into shape in time for next Christmas.