A warning has been issued to anyone buying Christmas trees in supermarkets (Image: Getty)
Garden experts are warning people who plan to buy their Christmas trees at supermarkets this year over concerns about their quality.
A perfect storm of poor weather conditions has led to predictions of a Christmas tree shortage hitting the UK this December, and one garden guru says this will have a direct effect on the quality of the trees on offer at supermarkets in particular.
Chris Bonnett, founder of , has said that while there should be enough trees to go around, those buying in supermarkets may be stuck with a lower quality offering.
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He spoke about how the described the first few months of the year as ‘wet and unsettled’ – conditions which he says have since caused huge problems for growing conditions across the country.
The excess moisture caused from the wet and cool weather can create problems such as fungal disease which ultimately impacts a tree’s growth and appearance.
This, along with the cooler temperatures experienced in the early growing season, has now led to a shortage in good quality .
Chris said: “There will be lots of people heading out over the next few weeks to buy their Christmas trees but unfortunately not everyone may be able to secure a quality tree this year.
“The start of this year was pretty wet and as we headed into the growing season temperatures were much cooler than usual meaning that a lot of trees would have experienced more moisture and higher risks of fungal diseases.
“These conditions can cause all sorts of problems for trees, affecting their growth and overall appearance.”
He added: “Prices are likely to rise across all types of trees, and whilst we’ve held as many of our prices as possible for our customers, we know it’s not easy and other retailers could be increasing their prices up to 20 per cent.”
The garden centre boss is encouraging Brits to buy their trees sooner rather than later in order to secure quality festive fir.
Those that leave it too late could be left with bleak looking trees that are sparse, gappy and have a short lifespan. Chris issued a warning over the quality of those found at supermarkets in particular.
Chris added: “Looking after trees this year is more important than ever and unfortunately places like supermarkets aren’t at the right temperature for festive fir, so there is no guessing how these trees will hold up once you take them home.
“Not every retailer hand picks their trees to ensure quality the way we do, so make sure to get out there and purchase your tree early to get one of good quality that will last you all throughout December.”