CHRISTMAS trees are already in the shops in the Wellington area and now the owner of a local outlet has offered advice on caring for trees in the run up to the festive season.

Reg Hendy, owner of Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm at Langford Budville, says that trees should survive happily in the home for more than four weeks, as long as good care is taken of them.

Reg added: “It is part of the tree’s lifecycle to shed its needles and shedding is accelerated when they dry out.

“Treat your tree like any plant being brought into a warm, dry atmosphere. A cut tree will require water every day. Do not allow your tree to dry out.

“After you have taken your tree home it should be kept in a cool, shaded place, preferably in standing water, until it is required indoors. Before bringing your tree in, it is an advantage to cut about half an inch off its trunk.

“Ensure you have a water-holding stand and have water in this ready for the tree trunk to stand in and always place your tree away from direct heat. Keep the container topped up with water daily as you would with cut flowers.”

The Christmas tree farm, which has featured on the BBC’s ‘The One Show’ programme, is based at Middle Hill Farm.

Reg added: ““Our expert team will be available until Friday, December 23, to offer people tips on what type of tree to pick and then how to look after it so that it lasts well into the New Year.”