For many households, decorating the Christmas tree marks the true start of the festive season.
But growers are warning that this familiar ritual may come with an unwelcome surprise in 2025, as some trees risk shedding their needles well before Christmas Day arrives.
After one of the driest summers in decades, concerns are mounting that stressed trees could struggle to stay green and full through the holiday period.
The Summer That Took Its Toll
Tree farmers say the problem began months ago.
Extended dry spells during late spring and summer left spruce, fir and pine trees under intense strain, limiting their ability to retain moisture.
Without enough rainfall during crucial growing months, many trees failed to build up the reserves they need to stay fresh once cut.
When brought indoors — especially into centrally heated homes — some could dry out quickly and begin dropping needles within days.
A Stark Warning From the Fields
One grower summed it up bluntly, suggesting some families could be facing a “bare Christmas Day” if they’re unlucky with their choice of tree.
The message from the industry is clear: this year, not all trees will cope equally well.
While many mature trees are still expected to hold up, others may struggle, particularly if they’re cut early and left without water.
How Shoppers Can Protect Their Tree
Growers are urging customers to be choosy.
Picking the freshest tree available is key, and experts recommend treating it much like a bouquet of flowers.
Once home, the advice is simple but crucial: place the tree straight into water and keep it topped up.
Trees should also be positioned well away from radiators, fireplaces and other heat sources that can speed up drying.
Why Timing Matters More Than Ever
Walter Beard, whose family has been growing Christmas trees for more than half a century at Leigh Sinton Farm near Malvern, says this year has been especially challenging.
He explained that the prolonged dry weather earlier in the year put many trees under stress before autumn arrived.
Thankfully, rainfall in September and October helped rescue a large number of crops.
Still, Beard cautions that needle drop remains a risk and believes buyers should consider keeping their tree outdoors until they’re ready to decorate it.
A Changing Climate, A Changing Industry
Across the country, Christmas tree growers are being forced to adapt.
With dry springs becoming more common, many farms are investing in irrigation systems to protect young plants.
Some are also changing when they plant, opting for autumn rather than spring.
This gives saplings more time to establish strong root systems over winter, improving their chances of surviving hot, dry conditions later on.
Breeding Tougher Trees for the Future
Researchers are also stepping in, working to develop hardier tree varieties that can cope with weather extremes.
It’s a slow process, but a necessary one, given that a Christmas tree takes anywhere from eight to 12 years to reach full size.
The hope is that future generations of festive firs will be better equipped to handle the climate challenges now facing growers.
Reassurance for the Festive Season Ahead
Despite the warnings, industry leaders stress that not all is lost.
A spokesperson for the British Christmas Tree Growers’ Association said mature, harvest-ready trees are generally resilient and capable of withstanding difficult weather.
They added that the shift from spring to autumn planting has already shown promising results, helping young trees settle in before dry spells hit.
What This Means for Your Christmas
For shoppers, the takeaway is simple: buy fresh, act quickly, and look after your tree once it’s home.
With a bit of care, many trees should still make it through the festive season looking full and festive — needles firmly intact.
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