* For a narrow space:
A Fraser fir may be the answer, says Mark Rofe, owner of ChristmasTrees.co.uk (christmastrees.co.uk).
“It’s the perfect all-round Christmas tree, with great needle holding abilities and a zesty aroma. It smells like Christmas and has beautiful dark green foliage with blue undertones. Its slimmer shape makes it ideal for more compact homes. It also has soft foliage, which makes it suitable if you’ve got small children or pets.”
Alternatively, try a slim grade Nordmann fir, suggests Marcus Eyles, horticultural director of Dobbies Garden Centres: “The slim grade Nordmann fir is perfect for tight spots due to its narrow shape and looks stunning when dressed with lights and baubles. Sometimes known as the ‘non drop’ tree because of its excellent needle retention, it’s a popular hit.”
* For low ceilings:
Eyles recommends a pot grown Norway or Serbian spruce: “These small trees are a flexible choice and can be styled on the floor or on a low table, great for country cottages with low ceilings. Make sure to keep your tree cool and well-watered.”
* An even smaller option:
“For a small space, consider a pot grown Picea ‘Conica’ or a small Norfolk island pine,” suggests Eyles. “These trees are perfect for those working with a limited amount of space as they are neat and compact but still a good enough size to make an impact.”
“Tiny Trees are so on trend right now and the blue spruce, with its lush and distinctive blue green foliage, is the perfect option for compact spaces,” recommends James Folger, founder of plant specialists The Stem. “It is small but perfectly formed, looks fantastic on a coffee table, or even a large enough dining room table as a centrepiece.”
* Eco-friendly:
“The most eco-friendly way to buy a Christmas tree is to buy a pot-grown type. Grown in the pot they are sold in, the trees have a root system so they can be kept or replanted again after the festive period, where they will grow and then can be raised and brought in for next year – it’s eco-friendly and sustainable,” says Rofe.
* For a large space: The premium grade Nordmann fir is Eyles’ top choice. “It’s the classic tree we all picture when we think of the festive season. With a full shape, glossy dark green needles and very low needle drop, this is the ultimate tree to make a statement and will transform any home into a Christmas wonderland.
“It’s also a great choice if you have high ceilings and want to fill the space as it’s one of the tallest trees on the market.”
For something a bit different you could go for a Korean fir, Rofe suggests which are grown predominantly in Scotland.
“The Korean fir is a more luscious green. Occasionally they will come with cones on the branches. They are a bit more expensive but they are really symmetrical,” he said.
