I SPOTTED my first Christmas trees on sale at my local greengrocers last week. They looked very nice, all wrapped up in white netting, their trunks set in nice little wooden blocks, but before I rush out to buy one, I need to think about which tree is the right tree for me.

AN ARTIFICIAL TREE…

If I want to put my tree up in November I shall need an artificial one as it will look as good on Christmas Day as it does today. Treated with care, artificial trees can last for years but it’s worth shopping around as prices vary enormously. Don’t forget that charity shops and some websites will have all sorts of seasonal goodies at rock bottom prices.

READ MORE: Is Black Friday the real deal?

A LIVING TREE…

Will takes some TLC if I’m going to get the best out of it. Fresh trees are either ‘cut’, ‘container-grown’ or pot-grown. Cut trees have no roots and will die, ‘container-grown’ have actually been grown in a field and then re-potted, whilst ‘pot-grown’ have lived their whole lives in pots. Though still a living tree, container-grown trees don’t have the same long-term survival rate as pot-grown.

TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING A LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE

Living trees should have green, springy needles and be symmetrical in shape.

Look out for signs of pruning and, if possible, lift it out of its pot and check the roots are in good condition.

Keep it outside for as long as possible.

When you bring the tree indoors, place it away from direct heat and in a pot saucer to protect the floor or table. Water regularly, even if it’s a cut tree, a little water will help to prevent needle loss.