PUTTING up the decorations is a traditional Christmas highlight and the tree is the star of the show.
But with the cost of real trees rocketing this year, more of us are going for faux firs.
Trees have been hit by supply-chain issues and droughts, meaning less of us will having a real tree this ChristmasGetty – Contributor
Trees have been hit by supply-chain issues and droughts, meaning the traditionally best-selling six footers are harder to find than usual and, as a consequence, will cost you more.
Are you thinking of swapping fresh for fake so you can enjoy the same one year after year?
After unboxing six artificial options, each costing less than £60, Claire Dunwell marks them all out of ten for value.
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Pre-lit 4ft flocked tree in square planter
£55 (down from £95), Wilko
News Group Newspapers Ltd.This tree from Wilko comes with pine cones and glitter berries[/caption]
VERDICT: The biggest selling point here is that it comes with pine cones and glitter berries, meaning there is no need for you to fork out on any extra decorations.
If you have pets or curious young children, there isn’t a risk of this one toppling over either, as it comes with a pretty heavy base.
It does need some work to make it look thicker and fuller but once the lights are on, it’s very convincing and could easily be mistaken for a real tree.
RATING: 7
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Pre-lit 4ft Scandinavian blue spruce with 80 warm white LEDs
£51.99, werchristmas.co.uk
News Group Newspapers Ltd.The light effect in the base of this tree is eye-catching and sets it apart from the others[/caption]
VERDICT: This tree is small, which means it would be perfect to set up on a table or in a tight space.
The light effect in the base is eye-catching and sets it apart from the others.
But at just over £50, this isn’t cheap and it could be a tree that loses its appeal if you used it year after year.
RATING: 4
White fibre optic, 5ft
£33.75, Habitat
News Group Newspapers Ltd.This tree’s modern look would be ideal for a teenager’s bedroom or for those who prefer minimalist interiors over a more traditional vibe[/caption]
VERDICT: A super- lightweight tree that lacks the wow factor during the day – but it is impressive at night when the lights are on.
Its modern look would be ideal for a teenager’s bedroom or for those who prefer minimalist interiors over a more traditional vibe.
It’s a little bit different and that’s no bad thing.
RATING: 7
Pre-lit 4ft pine with multi-colour LEDs
£34.99, Robert Dyas
If you are short of space and on a tight budget, then this tree is a good option for youNews Group Newspapers Ltd.
VERDICT: A fun tree with multi-coloured lights, although it looks a little sparse.
You would need to buy some baubles and other decs to fill the gaps but if you are short of space and on a tight budget, then this is a good option for you.
RATING: 8
Pre-lit 6ft snowy
£60, Asda
News Group Newspapers Ltd.This Asda tree is 6ft, which is a good size to fit into a spacious corner[/caption]
VERDICT: After fluffing up the branches to thicken out, we were impressed by the number of lights.
It is also 6ft, which is a good size to fit into a spacious corner.
The snowy branches made this one very messy to assemble because the dust went everywhere – so have the vacuum cleaner ready.
It probably should be avoided if you suffer from allergies or asthma.
RATING: 6
Premier black 4ft with warm white LED stars
£53.99, onbuy.com
News Group Newspapers Ltd.This tree comes with a star for the top and the star-shaped lights which double up nicely as baubles[/caption]
VERDICT: This tree is all- singing, all-dancing – and the most fun of the bunch.
It comes with a star for the top and the star-shaped lights which double up nicely as baubles.
Although it isn’t one of the cheapest we tried out, you certainly get a lot for your money.
Also, because it isn’t the standard green, it will be a talking point when you have friends and family over.
RATING: 10