The holiday season is approaching, and with it comes the question of whether to splurge on a grand Christmas tree or opt for a more budget-friendly option. According to Holger Zahn, Managing Director of Späth'sche Baumschulen in Berlin, this year, consumers may be opting for smaller trees due to financial constraints. The Berlin-Brandenburg Horticultural Association recently kicked off the Christmas tree season, and Zahn claimed that people are looking to save on their tree purchases this year.
Lutz Grille, Vice President of the association, confirms this trend, stating that many individuals have turned to smaller trees in pots as they can be replanted after the festive season. However, these trees should not be left in a warm apartment for longer than a week, Grille advises, as they may start to sprout and then perish when moved back outside in the cold. Instead, the tree should ideally remain in a pot on the balcony.
Preparations for the sale of Christmas trees have already begun on the plantations. While there won't be a price shock, the Federal Association of Christmas Tree Producers estimates that domestic trees will be slightly more expensive this year due to higher wages and increased transportation costs. According to their estimates, a Nordmann fir can cost 21-29 euros per meter, a slight increase from last year's price.
In response to these higher costs, people might consider purchasing smaller trees this holiday season. With the growing trend of space-saving alternatives, many individuals are choosing potted trees that can be replanted later. The shift towards smaller trees is also influenced by the high number of single households with limited space.
Adjusting to these changing consumer trends and higher production costs, horticulturalists and producers are exploring various solutions. Some are promoting small, space-saving alternatives, such as creative disguises for Christmas trees, like wall art trees or bookshelf trees. Others suggest DIY alternatives, such as a makeshift Christmas tree wall hanging using fresh greenery, which can be easily installed and removed without damaging walls.
This shift towards more affordable and space-efficient choices reflects the broader effect of rising living costs and consumer preferences for smaller households. As Grille mentioned, taking care of a potted tree is not only a way to save money but also to contribute to the environment by supporting sustainable tree-growing practices. By opting for smarter and more eco-friendly alternatives, consumers can continue to enjoy the magic of the holiday season while remaining mindful of their budgets.
