Growing Sustainably  

At Appleton Christmas Barn we have been selling Christmas Trees from our farm for over 75 years, for many families it has become a Christmas tradition to visit us to pick out their tree. In 2008 we added the Christmas Decoration Shop offering a wide range of festive products for the tree and home. We prioritise sustainability in our approach to working with Christmas trees, considering it crucial for the well-being of the surrounding countryside. Our tree supply is sourced from local growers who are members of The British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA).  

 

This association conducted a study, the first ever of its kind undertaken in the UK, to gain insights into the role of plantations in fostering habitats and supporting native wildlife. The most recent findings reveal intriguing insights into the abundance and diversity of wildlife within British Christmas tree plantations, underscoring their significance as integral components of the countryside ecosystem. Properly maintained plantations were observed to provide crucial support for insects, arachnids, as well as both native and migratory birds. In addition, the study revealed that British Christmas tree plantations play a significant role in supporting various species of conservation concern, including red squirrels and polecats. For example, within the 10-year growth cycle of the average 6ft Christmas tree, it becomes a thriving environment for wildlife, demonstrating the positive impact of sustainable practices upheld by our suppliers. 

 

Rory Young, Chairman of BCTGA said: “This is a highly significant study which provides further evidence for why buying a local sustainably grown British Christmas tree is supporting nature and the environment.“The study demonstrates, perhaps for the very first time, that many and varied species inhabit and pass through British Christmas tree plantations, and that their sensitive management can boost numbers of endangered native species by creating a mosaic of important habitats that promote biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.” 

 

Christmas trees are cultivated with a specific purpose — to be harvested. However, within Christmas tree plantations, for every tree harvested, another is planted, ensuring a continuous and eco-friendly process. The study further highlighted the interconnectedness of arable areas used for food crops with patches of shrub and woodland within Christmas tree plantations. This interconnected landscape creates tree corridors that facilitate the free movement of various wildlife species, contributing to the availability and maintenance of these vital habitats. 

 

If cut trees aren’t your style, many people instead opt for buying potted Christmas trees, which after the festive season is over, you can keep the evergreen spruce as a pot plant outdoors such as on the terrace, adding a lovely touch of nostalgic charm, reminiscent of Christmases past. Alternatively, you can plant it out into the garden for a little extra greenness. 

 

Sustainability with your cut Christmas Trees extends beyond Christmas day, so once the decorations have come down and the lights all tangled up again, there are many ways in which you can recycle your tree. Many local councils gather festive conifers in the new year and process them into municipal compost or mulch. Another option is reaching out to your nearby garden centre for disposal assistance.