Choosing a Christmas Tree

Its that time of year again when you need to decide whether to get the plastic tree out of the loft, or go for a real tree.

For those who choose the latter, below is a brief guide to the types of real trees available.

Fraser Fir New to the UK market, it looks good and does not drop many needles.

Norway Spruce This is the traditional and cheapest option. But many of its short, pointed dark green needles will end up on the floor.

Nordman Fir This holds its needles well - a quality which has helped to make it the most popular option of late. It has flat shiny needles, but is expensive because it grows slowly.

Scots pine Long needles that do not drop too readily. The needles are less densely packed giving it an unusual look.

Serbian Spruce Glossy dark green needles that hold well.

Finally, when buying a tree, look out for the British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA) logo.