Wondering where you can get a real Christmas tree in Southampton?

This weekend is the start of Advent which means it's officially time to get the decorations out and decorate your Christmas tree. 

If you’re choosing to buy a real tree this year there are a few things you need to know: 

Why do we decorate Christmas trees?

Decorating your home with an evergreen fir tree has been a tradition for much longer than you may think.

Christians and Pagans have used the tree to celebrate winter festivals for thousands of years.

Pagans used branches of the fir tree to decorate their homes during the winter soltice as it made them think of the spring to come. Christians use it as a sign of everlasting life with God. 

When should you put it up?

Advent officially begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, this year falling on Sunday, November 29.

However, there’s no right or wrong and if you want to put your tree up before or after Advent then so be it, we think you’re allowed to this year especially. 

How long do they last? 

With proper care, most real Christmas trees should last at least five weeks or more. That means, if you decorate for Christmas in late November, your tree should survive beyond the holiday festivities. 

Where can I get a real Christmas tree in and around Southampton?

Daily Echo:

(Image - Unsplash)

Flower Factory 

56 Onslow Road, Southampton, SO14 0JN

The garden centre and wholesaler at Onslow Road is a great place to choose your next Christmas tree with no-fuss.

Their Nordmann non-drop trees vary in price and size with something for everyone's budget starting from £20 up to £125. 

The Flower Factory's a one-stop shop for all your Christmas needs with indoor and outdoor decorations. 

Opening times:

8.30am - 5pm Monday to Saturday

9am - 3pm Sunday

Allington Nursery and Garden Centre

Fair Oak, Eastleigh SO50 7DD

Freshly cut Christmas trees are available at Allington Nursery and Garden Centre daily, ranging between 6-8ft. 

Offering both premium and cheaper alternatives there are fresh trees to suit everyone's budgets. 

The premium Nordmann Fir trees start at £39.99.

Opening times:

9am - 5pm Monday to Saturday

10am - 4pm Sunday

J.West Christmas Tree Supplier

St Margaret's Nurseries, St Margaret's Lane, Fareham, PO14 4BL

The seasonal Christmas Tree store in Fareham has everything you need to get the perfect tree this year.

Prices start at £15 and there a range of varieties including the Norway Spruce, Nordmann Fir and Lodge Pole Pine. 

J.W Christmas Tree Supplier even offer free delivery within a three mile radius, delivery charges apply up to a 15 mile radius of the store. 

Opening times: 

9am - 7pm weekdays

9am - 6pm weekends

Meon Valley Christmas Trees 

Available in various locations across the region, see below. 

Meon Valley are experts in growing and supplying Nordmann Firs, the iconic trees are known for not dropping needles. 

Their trees start at £30 for a 4-5ft Nordmann. 

They are the only growers approved to sell at Hampshire Farmer's Markets across the Petersfield and Alton regions. 

If you are unable to get to a farmers market you can contact Meon Valley directly for collection.

Dates: 

Sunday 29th November – Winchester Farmers Market

Sunday 6th December – Romsey Farmers Market

Sunday 6th December – Petersfield Farmers Market

Saturday 12th December – Alton Farmers Market

Sunday 13th December – Winchester Farmers Market

Moors Valley

Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Ringwood, BH24 2ET

If you don't mind travelling a little further afireld then head to Moors Valley for a truly magical tree-picking experience.

Christmas trees from Moors Valley include Norway Spruce and Nordmann Fir and they help to support sustainable forestry in Britain.

A great day out for all the family, you can enjoy a hot chocolate or even test your knowledge in their free 2020 Christmas Quiz Trail. 

There is a one way system in place to browse the trees and you are encourage to pay by contactless where possible. 

Opening times:

10am - 4pm daily from December 1 to 16.

How do I dispose of my tree after Christmas?​

Real Christmas trees can be taken to a Household Waste Recycling Centre for composting.

They can also be put out for collection by the council after Christmas in early January. Check the council website  for Christmas collection arrangements.

How will you be celebrating Christmas this year? Let us know in the comments.