Are you planning to buy a real Christmas tree this year? While most people deck the halls in early December, the experts have revealed the best day to buy a real tree to ensure it lasts throughout the festivities — and it's sooner than you think.

The team at Christmas Tree World advises that the best time to buy your real Christmas tree is on the first Sunday of Advent. This year, it falls on Sunday 3rd December 2023.

"As real Christmas trees have an average life span of four to five weeks in the home, putting a real Christmas tree up on the 3rd of December means it will see you through the whole festive month and into January," says the team.

"Another popular choice for when to deck the halls is the slightly earlier date of 1st December. Many households like to set up their tree and other festive decorations on the first day of the month to mark the start of the official countdown to the big day."

It's important to purchase your tree at the right time to ensure it lasts throughout the festive season.

cotswold fir christmas trees photographed by alun callender for country livingpinterest
ALUN CALLENDER

Want to keep yours looking fresher for longer? Take a look at some of the fuss-free tips below:

Choose the best-looking tree

It's important to pick the right one. Liam Lapping from Flowercard says: "Make sure you come home with a tree in top shape! Before purchasing, give it a big shake to see if any needles are dropping off. Also make sure the needles are green and shiny."

Trim the trunk

Don't forget the trunk, either. Liam explains that as soon as you get home you should "cut around 3cm off the trunk". This is to ensure the tree can drink lots of water and stay fresh throughout the holidays.

"If you didn't do this the sap could have blocked the trunk meaning it wouldn't be able to soak up any more water," he adds.

Position it well

"Where you decide to place your tree is one of the most important factors to making sure it makes it to the big day," says Liam. "Make sure it's away from any heat sources such as log burners, open fireplaces and radiators, otherwise your tree will dry out faster. Likewise, keep your tree away from any draughts as they don’t like change!"

this is when you should buy your real christmas treepinterest
Alex Lahoda//Getty Images

Invest in a stand

A tree stand is a brilliant investment as it helps to provide your tree with enough water to thrive.

Ensure your tree gets enough water

"Make sure your Christmas tree is topped up with water, as if the water dips below the tree's trunk, the sap will re-seal the bark meaning it won’t be able to drink anymore. Three pints (of water) a day should be sufficient!"

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Lisa Joyner
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.