How to Choose the Best Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree

How to Choose the Best Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree

Choosing a Christmas tree is one of the most cherished traditions of the season. For families across Devon, it’s not just about finding a tree that looks beautiful—it’s about choosing one that feels right, lasts well, and is kind to the environment. Here’s a friendly guide to help you make the best choice this year.

Why Choosing a Tree Matters

There’s more to picking a Christmas tree than meets the eye. From the type of tree to how eco-friendly it is, each decision makes a difference.

Types of trees: Nordmann Fir is popular for its soft needles that don’t drop easily, while Norway Spruce offers that classic pine scent but can shed more.

Eco-friendly choices: Look for trees grown locally to reduce transport emissions. Potted trees are another option—they can be replanted after Christmas.

Alive at Christmas: A freshly cut, well-cared-for tree will stay vibrant through the festive season.

The Journey of Your Tree

It’s easy to forget that every Christmas tree has a journey before it reaches your living room. At our country store, we source trees from trusted UK growers—so you know your tree hasn’t travelled far.

• The seeds are picked from up high on ‘mother’ trees.
• They are planted in special nurseries for 3 years.
• Seedlings are then planted in plantations
• Each year they are pruned by hand to ensure they have the ultimate Christmas tree shape.
• By year 5 they are 60cm (2ft) tall.
• By Year 8 they are 120cm (4ft) .
• It take 8-10 years for them to grow to around 180cm (6ft).

Tips for caring at home:

Place your tree away from radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight. Heat dries out needles quickly.

All of our Christmas trees are cut as late as possible so you can be assured that they are as fresh as they can be. Think of a real Christmas tree like a bunch of flowers – it may be a little bigger but they are a natural product and should be treated like one. Water regularly. A stand with a water reservoir is ideal.

Trim the base of the trunk before placing it in the stand. This helps the tree absorb water more effectively.

If you’ve chosen a potted tree, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Never cut the top off a Nordmann Fir tree. This will release lots of the moisture from the tree and it will dry up quicker. You can however cut the top on a Fraser Fir tree.

By giving your tree a little TLC, you’ll enjoy its beauty right through Christmas Day and beyond.

What Happens After Christmas?

As the festive season winds down, it’s important to think about what happens next. Disposing of your tree responsibly is just as important as choosing it.

Recycling schemes: Devon County Council offers Christmas tree recycling services where trees are chipped and reused as mulch for parks and gardens. You can find details at Devon’s recycling service.

Replanting: If you opted for a potted tree, you can replant it in your garden. With care, it may thrive for years, becoming a living reminder of past Christmases.

Creative reuse: Some people cut branches into smaller pieces for wildlife habitats or compost. It’s a lovely way to give back to nature. Some animals love to eat them like pigs or goats.

The Perfect Eco-Friendly Tree

Imagine a tree that smells wonderful, stays fresh until Christmas, and is recycled or replanted afterwards. That’s the kind of tree we’re proud to offer. By choosing local, eco-friendly trees, you’re not only making your home festive but also supporting sustainable practices.

Come and See Our Trees

We’d love to help you find your perfect Christmas tree. Pop into our store in Devon, take in the scent of fresh pine, and choose a tree that will make your celebrations magical and eco-friendly.