All things Christmas Trees
10 things to know before buying a Christmas Tree
Bodenstown Christmas Trees top tips on selecting selecting your tree and also advice on ways to help the tree last the entire Christmas period.
1. Location
Decide where you want to locate your tree; by a bay window, in a corner of the sitting room, in the hall next to the stairs etc. Then look at the space and height available.
2.Things to bring
Bring a measuring tape, black bag or old bed sheet for the car and ropes or straps for holding the tree securely in place. (We have measuring staff at Bodenstown Christmas trees so don't worry if you forget to bring it)
3. Have a clean car
Set the car up before heading off, especially if it is likely to rain. Empty the car of golf clubs and other items and head down to your local tree supplier (hopefully us at Bodenstown Christmas Trees !).
4. Irish trees vs. imported trees
Ensure the trees are locally sourced as these are generally cut later and will be fresher.
(This is the case at Bodenstown Christmas Trees; we cut our trees as late as possible and restock throughout the Christmas period)
5. Type of tree
There are several different species of non-shed Christmas tree grown in Ireland. The best for needle retention are the Nordmann fir and the Noble fir. The Fraser Fir and the Lodge pole pine also have good needle retention. ( At Bodenstown Christmas Trees this year we have Noble and Nordmann Fir trees for sale)
6. Selecting a healthy tree
A healthy lush colour with good needle retention are the hallmarks of a healthy tree. To check for needle retention simply run your hand along the branches and check to ensure that the needles don’t come away easily.
7. Agree price
Depending on quality and tree type, the guide price would be €7 to €10 per foot.
8. Remove old needles
Having selected the tree and prior to netting, ask the seller to turn the tree upside down and shake the loose and dead needles out that accumulate in the centre of the trees. (This will reduce the clean up in the car.)
9. Tree Preparation
Ask the seller to drill a shallow 8mm diameter hole in the base to make it easier to fix to the stand when you get home.( We have the drill on standby and will be happy to pre-drill the tree for you)
10. Tree Care
When you get the tree home, carefully pare the bark back around the base of the tree (about an inch) and leave it in a bucket of water in a cold shed or outdoors until you’re ready to put up the tree. For best results, use a water stand, locate the tree away from a fire and turn off any radiators next to the tree. ( We have both basic and waterstands on sale but would highly advocate the use of water stands!)
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