The right tree for you

Before you head off to buy your tree, remember to measure your space as well as the diameter of your tree stand. It’s easy to lose your sense of scale once you get to the tree supplier.

BLUE SPRUCE So called because its needles have a silver-blue tinge, the blue spruce has a broad base and a symmetrical form. It holds its needles if watered regularly, but it is spiky, so not ideal if you have young children or pets.

NORWAY SPRUCE This is a slender tree with dense, bright green needles and that classic pine fragrance. It does drop its needles in a warm room, so avoid buying too early.

FRASER FIR The Fraser fir is popular in the US. It’s a slender tree, so just right for small spaces, with soft, green needles with a silver reverse. This tree also has a lovely fragrance, strong branches and holds its needles well.

NOBLE FIR This handsome fir has greygreen needles that tilt upwards – perfect for heavy decorations. Its open shape, superb scent and needle retention make it a popular tree, though it’s a more expensive choice.

NORDMANN FIR Known for its good needle retention, this tree has rich green, soft foliage. The branches are tiered, which makes them great for baubles. It doesn’t have much scent.

KOREAN FIR This bright tree is compact, with soft, silver-blue needles arranged radially around the shoots, meaning that the branches appear dense. Needle retention is good and it has a strong scent.