How to Pick the Perfect Christmas Tree

Expert Tips from Woodlands.co.uk’s Anton Baskerville

For many, the Christmas tree is the heart of the festive season. The scent of pine filling the home, lights twinkling through the branches, and presents beneath bring plenty of festive cheer. But how do you choose the perfect tree, and what can you do to keep it looking its best right through to the New Year?

Anton Baskerville from Woodlands.co.uk shares his expert advice on selecting and caring for your Christmas tree this festive season.

“Choosing the right tree is part of the joy of Christmas,” says Anton. “Whether you’re picking one from a local garden centre or selecting it straight from a woodland that grows trees by the thousand, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check the species, freshness and quality. These will make a dramatic difference to how long it lasts.”

The most popular varieties include the Norway Spruce, a traditional favourite with a rich pine scent, and the Nordmann Fir, known for its soft, glossy needles and excellent needle retention. The Scots Pine, a hardy British native, and the Silver Fir, with its full, elegant shape, are also great options. Anton advises choosing a tree with firm, glossy needles and a clean fragrance. “Give it a gentle shake,” he says. “If only a few needles fall, you’ve got a fresh tree.”

Once home, Anton recommends giving the tree a good drink straight away. After trimming one to two centimetres off the base, place it immediately in a stand filled with water, because even a short delay can cause sap to seal over the trunk, preventing water absorption. If you’re not decorating it straight away, store the tree outdoors in a shaded, sheltered spot in a bucket of water to keep it cool. Avoid sudden temperature changes by allowing the tree to acclimatise before bringing it into a warm living room, and always keep the stand topped up with water daily. Once the trunk dries out, it will no longer take up water.

It’s also important to choose a stand that fits your tree with plenty of room around the trunk, as a tight fit can restrict water uptake.

If possible, position the tree in a cooler part of the house, away from radiators, fires, and direct sunlight, which can quickly dry out the needles. A light misting of water on the branches every couple of days can help maintain humidity and keep needles supple. Just be careful not to spray water near lights or decorations. Using LED lights rather than traditional bulbs can further reduce heat exposure, helping the tree last longer while saving energy. For those who like a little extra boost, some people add a teaspoon of sugar, lemon juice, or even an aspirin to the water, though Anton notes that the main secret is simply keeping the tree hydrated and fresh.

When the festivities are over, Anton recommends recycling your tree rather than sending it to landfill. “Many local councils now collect Christmas trees and turn them into mulch or compost for parks and gardens, a great way to give something back to nature after the celebrations,” he says.

A final word of caution: while holly, ivy and mistletoe add a lovely traditional touch, some festive greenery can be toxic to pets, so it’s best used with care.

By choosing your Christmas tree thoughtfully, caring for it well, and recycling it responsibly, you can enjoy a beautiful and sustainable festive season. 

Ends

Editors notes

Founded with a mission to make woodland ownership accessible and enjoyable, Woodlands.co.uk offers private woodlands for sale across the UK. The company provides resources and guidance for new owners to explore creative ways of managing their woodlands for personal and community benefit. Whether for conservation, leisure, or environmental education, Woodlands.co.uk empowers individuals to steward and protect their woodlands for generations to come.