This weekend marks the start of Advent which means it’s officially time to put up your Christmas Tree - hooray!

If you’re choosing to get a real tree this year but aren’t sure where to get one or even if you can this year, we’ve got all of the answers:

When did the tradition of putting up a Christmas tree start?

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 behins 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 Watford? 

Watford Observer:

(Image - Unsplash)

Pines and Needles

Verumlamium Park, opposite Westminster Lodge, Holywell Hill, St Albans, AL1 2DL

The seasonal pop-up shop is back in St Albans this year selling their famous premium trees.

Ranging from 3ft to 60ft there really is something for absolutely everyone.

Their trees include the Nordmann Fir, known for being non-drop as well as the Norway Spruce and pot grown Fraser Fir.

They also have decorated trees for those who don't fancy digging out their old decorations this year. 

If you are unable to get to one of their shops you can order online for delivery.

Opening times: 

10am - 8pm Weekdays

8am - 8pm Weekends

The Plant Shop

The Plant Stop, Hempstead Road, Watford, WD17 3NL

Part of the Effortless Events group this seasonal garden centre sells everything you need to make your Christmassy dreams a reality. 

They sell a variety of freshly cut trees, potted trees and gorgeous wreaths from £5 to decorate your homes. 

Potted trees start at £20 and freshly cut trees start around £30. 

Opening times:

10am - 4.30 daily in November 

10am - 6.30 daily in December

Keep up to date with the last information on their website.

Christmas Tree Place

Christmas Tree Place, Chesham Road, Berkhamsted HP4 2SZ

Pick your own freshly cut Christmas tree at Christmas Tree Place daily from their field, a truly festive right of passage.  

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

Prices start at £9 for a Norway Spruce and £16 for non-drop trees.

Visitors are reminded to wear suitable footwear when in the field and there are Christmas decorations available for sale in their store. 

Opening times:

9am - 5pm daily

How do I dispose of my tree after Christmas?

Take it to your Househole Waste and Recycling Centre, be sure to check the council website to find your closest centre and the opening times. 

Alternatively, if you cut up into small pieces, the tree can go into your brown bin.

When do you put up your Christmas tree? Let us know in the comments.