We’re just a few weeks away from Christmas, and all the shopping malls and streets have already started decking their halls with all sorts of festive decorations.
But before you count down the days until all that merry feasting, when exactly is the right time to put up your tree?
We went to the expert and asked for an exact answer. Nicole Keleher, the director and head designer at Melbourne-based store My Christmas, says the answer depends on whether you have an artificial tree made from plastic or a fresh tree bought from your local supplier.
For Artificial Trees
If you’re tossing up between a real or fake tree, Nicole says they’re absolutely no shame in having a plastic tree.
“The first of December is standard for artificial trees to be put up,” she says. “I love artificial trees. They make them so much easier to decorate and of course there’s no expiry date,” she says. So if you’ve got one of these, you can lean into the Christmas spirit on December 1st and start decorating!
READ MORE: 15 Best Gifts To Buy For Preschoolers This Christmas From $10
For Fresh Trees
If you’re tired of seeing the same sad-looking plastic tree being pulled out from the storage and put up for display, why not convince your family to opt for a real tree this Christmas?
Fresh trees vary in how long they last. Some people report their trees only lasting two-three weeks, while some online suppliers claim if placed correctly and taken care of, fresh trees can last between four and six weeks.
The trick is to wait until the second weekend of December to pick up your tree, to ensure it’s looking fresh and sprightly on the big day.
“If you want a real tree, I would be holding off a little longer. In Europe they decorate their trees on Christmas Eve, because they want them to be as fresh as possible,” Nicole says. “The second weekend of December is ideal, so you can enjoy them for two or three weeks.”
The best thing about live trees is that you don’t have to worry about dismantling them and finding space to keep them till next December. Plus, live trees are also environmentally friendly and non-toxic to children and pets.
When’s the best time to take down the tree?
If you’re wondering when is the appropriate time to take down the Christmas tree after December 25th has been and gone, we’ve also got the answer for you.
Unlike the varied dates for people to put up their tree, many people do stick to the same date to take down their tree — between January 5 or 6. Traditionally, the twelfth night (meaning twelve days after Christmas) represents the true end of the festive period.
However, there’s no shame in keeping your tree up till Chinese New Year – simply swap the baubles and bells for oranges and ang pows!
On the hunt for your perfect tree? Here are seven places in Singapore to check out:
Text: Bauersyndication.com.au / Additional text: Young Lim, Home & Decor Singapore and Elizabeth Liew