UK households are being urged to purchase their Christmas trees early this year due to a looming shortage of quality options. Climate change and a particularly dry summer have impacted tree growth, resulting in less dense branches on popular varieties like spruces and Nordmann firs.
According to experts, while Christmas trees will still be available, many may not look as full or bushy as in previous years. Chris Bonnett, founder of Gardening Express, highlights how late frosts, heatwaves, and ongoing climate challenges have stunted tree growth across Europe, causing a dip in supply.
Furthermore, increased transportation and labor costs are driving prices higher, costs that are inevitably passed on to consumers. Bonnett advises shoppers to act quickly once trees hit stores, as demand is outpacing supply.
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The British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA) also notes that last year’s wet conditions damaged root systems, further affecting tree quality this season.
Deepak Tailor, founder of LatestFreeStuff.co.uk, recommends shopping early, especially for those seeking larger or premium trees. However, he reassures that most people should still find a tree closer to Christmas, though the “perfect” tree may be harder to come by if you wait too long.
In summary, to secure a quality Christmas tree this year, UK shoppers are encouraged to buy early, prepare for higher prices, and anticipate some variation in tree appearance due to environmental factors.