Wondering where you can get a real Christmas tree in Southend?

This weekend is the start of Advent which means it's officially time to get the decorations out and decorate your Christmas tree. 

If you’re choosing to buy a real tree this year there are a few things you need to know: 

Why do we decorate Christmas trees?

Decorating your home with an evergreen fir tree has been a tradition for much longer than you may think.

Christians and Pagans have used the tree to celebrate winter festivals for thousands of years.

Pagans used branches of the fir tree to decorate their homes during the winter soltice as it made them think of the spring to come. Christians use it as a sign of everlasting life with God. 

When should you put it up?

Advent officially behins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, this year falling on Sunday, November 29.

However, there’s no right or wrong and if you want to put your tree up before or after Advent then so be it, we think you’re allowed to this year especially. 

How long do they last? 

With proper care, most real Christmas trees should last at least five weeks or more. That means, if you decorate for Christmas in late November, your tree should survive beyond the holiday festivities. 

Where can I get a real Christmas tree in and around Southend?

Echo:

(Image - Unsplash)

Leigh Trees

The A127 Christmas Tree Farm, 579 Prince Ave, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 0JJ

The seasonal Christmas tree store on Prince Avenue is a great place to choose your next Christmas tree with no-fuss.

Leigh Trees offers Nordmann Firs known for being non-drop as well as the traditional Norway Spruces. 

There's something for everyone's budget with prices varying between £33 to £250. 

If you're looking for something more environmentally and budget friendly then you can even rent your Christmas tree.

Rental trees are potted and need watering daily, they cost £15 and after use they are planted into the ground to become next years crop. 

Opening times:

8am - 5pm Sunday to Tuesday

8am - 7pm Wednesday

8am - 8pm Thursday

8am - 9pm Friday and Saturday 

Slatford Nursery 

Weir Cutting, Arterial Rd, Rayleigh SS6 7TU

Pick your own freshly cut Christmas tree at Slatford Nursery daily from their field, a truly Christmassy tradition. 

Offering both premium and cheaper alternatives there are fresh trees to suit everyone's budgets. 

Varities include the Nordmann Fir, Norway Spruce, Blue Spruce and Fraser Firs.

Visitors are reminded to wear suitable footwear when in the field and there are Christmas decorations available for sale in their store. 

Opening times:

9am - 6pm daily

Christmas Tree Farm

Woodham Road (Old Road), Battlesbridge, Wickford, SS11 7QL

The seasonal Christmas Tree farm in Wickford has everything you need to get the perfect tree this year.

Prices start at £18 and there a range of varieties including the Norway Spruce, Nordmann Fir and Lodge Pole Pine. 

Opening on Saturday, November 28 visitors must book their free-entry before arrival at the weekends. Booking is not needed for weekdays.

Opening times: 

9am - 7pm weekdays

9am - 6pm weekends

How do I dispose of my tree after Christmas?​

Real Christmas trees are collected with the weekly collection after the Christmas and New Year period by the council.

Place your tree, with all decorations and pots removed, with your other recycling and waste on collection day. 

How will you be celebrating Christmas this year? Let us know in the comments.