Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
keeping it real
Now it's all over, here's what to do to take care of your Christmas tree
The Irish Christmas Tree Growers Association estimates 44% of us will have bought a real tree this year.
NOW IT’S ALL over, but that tree in the corner has to stick around for at least another week.
If you opted for a real tree this year, there’s a few steps you can take to make sure your tree smells fresh and stays green until it’s time to take the decorations down.
TheJournal.ie caught up with a spokesperson for the ICTGA to find out the best ways to make sure your tree stays green right through to January.
She said: “Again to keep the tree looking healthy and green in those days after Christmas keep watering it – that’s the key!
The tree will probably endure some “handling” over Christmas but if you buy a good quality one in the first place it should last.
In terms of disposing of the tree after the Christmas period, there’s a few easy steps you can take.
The spokesperson said: “As growers we fully support and understand the part we play in promoting a sustainable resource.
“The forest environment is protected by the fact that Christmas trees are continually being planted to replace trees being harvested in accordance with “sustainable yield management” promoted by the Forest Service.
“We always recommend to people to send their tree to their nearest recycling centre once Christmas is over. Check your local authority website for details or go to www.repak.ie.”
Irish Christmas trees are exported all over Europe and, after an expected bumper harvest, well over half a million trees were put on the market by ICTGA members.
ICTGA’s Dermot Page said in a statement: “Over 80 of our member growers across the country have been busy harvesting their crop. More than 550,000 trees will be cut, 350,000 plus for the domestic market with the balance being exported to European markets including the UK, Germany and France.”
According to a survey conducted for the ICTGA, 44% of people have a real Christmas tree at home this year, while almost two thirds say they like the feel of a real tree in the house.
have your say