Pot Grown

For many years the Norway Spruce was the most popular Christmas tree variety in the UK due to the fact it grew locally and naturally produced the classic Christmas tree shape. Still grown throughout Northern Europe, it is a fast-growing species and tolerates most soils but does require good drainage. Every Christmas, Oslo, the capital of Norway, provides the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree in London with the country’s name-sake spruce.

Although native to the Rocky Mountains, USA, the Blue Spruce has been widely introduced elsewhere and is used as an ornamental tree far beyond its origin. This species has an excellent natural shape and requires little shearing, partially leading to its popularity of being used as a Christmas tree.

Nordman Fir originates from the Caucus Mountain range, dividing Turkey and Georgia. Seed from Ambrolauri, Georgia is preferred because it is considered to produce trees which begin their spring growth later and slower growing, resulting in more branches – ideal for Christmas trees. Another advantage is trees that flush into growth later in the season are less likely to suffer from frost damage, thus avoiding any unsightly foliage. With careful pruning and the most favourable soils we can create the perfect Nordman Christmas tree.

Commonly known as Omorika, this spruce originates from Serbia and Eastern Bosnia and naturally grows in colder climates than its close cousin the Norway Spruce. It is often grown in areas affected by late frosts as it is less likely to get damaged than other species.  Though slow growing, Omorika is mainly used as an ornamental tree in large gardens and to a smaller extent for Christmas trees, timber and paper production.

Fraser Fir is not widely grown as it only thrives in specific locations, especially from where it originates in the mountains of Eastern USA. Luckily – our Fraser Fir growers have spent years perfecting how to get the best growth and shape. Fraser fir is widely used as a Christmas tree, especially in America, and has been used more times than any other as the official White House Christmas tree.

Originally from the North West coast of the United States, Noble fir still grows widely in the Rocky Mountains. It is a high altitude tree, typically occurring at 300-1500 metres (980 -4920 ft). Although a popular and handsome Christmas tree its wood is also used for paper manufacture and general structural purposes.