Taunton folk interested in buying a fresh traditional Christmas tree this year (2012) can receive free expert advice from a garden centre in the county this month (December).
Christmas Tree Clinics will be held at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre every weekend from Saturday, December 1 in the run up to the festive period. Andrew Pitman, Plant Manager at the independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield, said: “During the next few weeks I will be holding complimentary clinics to give visitors advice on selecting and caring for their real Christmas trees.
“People are often unsure what tree to pick and how to look after it to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. “On the weekends when I am not in, our Plant Advisor, Daniel Welch, who is extremely knowledgeable on this topic, will be hosting the clinics.” The clinics will take place every weekend from November 24 until December 23, during normal garden centre opening hours.
The trees that Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre stocks are grown in British and European nurseries for at least 10 years before being cut. During this time each tree is nurtured and checked regularly. Andrew added: “The suppliers that provide us with our trees are very conscious of protecting the environment. The plantations are a haven for wildlife with birds of prey, butterflies, mice and spiders.” During the Christmas Tree Clinics, Andrew will be explaining how a few simple care tips can ensure trees are kept fresh and fragrant during the festive season.
He will also chat to people about selecting the right tree. Andrew continued: “It’s really important when making a purchase like this to know how to get the best from your tree. Not only will I be offering advice on this aspect of having a fresh Christmas tree, I will also be able to talk to people about different varieties and what might suit their home best. This year we’re selling Blue spruce, Nordman fir and Norway spruce trees. MF Page 2, Christmas Trees/ME “It was Spruce trees that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first decorated in the mid 19th Century. But these days Nordman are much more popular. “You also need to consider your decorations when choosing a tree. If you have lots of dangling decorations don’t pick a tree that is too bushy as they will not hang well. If you have lots of low voltage lights a dense tree will give maximum impact. “The colour of the tree is important too as this helps show off your decorations, so consider your colour scheme before making your selection.
Measure the height of the room as well as you don’t want one that’s too small or one that will scrape the ceiling.” Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The award-winning garden centre was launched in 1982 and is run by the Bellman family with the help of nearly 100 staff. Some have been with the business for more than 25 years.
For more information about the Christmas Tree Clinics, please call the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, on 01823 412381
