Apparently there is such a thing as starting Christmas too early - at least according to tree experts.

If you are putting your tree up in the middle of November after Halloween decorations have only just come down, the chances are it’s not going to look great on the big day.

Two London Christmas tree companies are urging people to wait until at least December 1 to start getting festive, to reduce the risk of disappointment.

News Shopper:

Sam Lyle, owner of celebrity favourite Pines and Needles, said: “Obviously, people are incredibly excited in the run-up to Christmas and getting the Christmas tree up and decorated is one of the most magical jobs.

In 2016, Pines and Needle, delivered a tree to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Since then the stores have spread over London. 

“Last year so many celebrities put their trees up in November, but it could lead to disappointment by the time the big day arrives.”

Kelty Caston, owner of The Christmas Forest, added: “You have to think of your tree like cut flowers as that is essentially what it is.

News Shopper:

"You always keep your flowers topped up with water so you need to do the same with your Christmas tree.”

Both companies have joined forces to provide some top tips to ensure you have the best Christmas and keep the tree in sparkling condition.

Real Christmas trees obviously smell incredible and give you maximum bragging rights, but what if it’s looking too shabby on the big day?

Here’s what you can do -

Routine

If you leave your tree outside in the frost for two days then place it next to the fire, it won’t like it. Trees, like most people, are creatures of habit and prefer steady conditions.

Heat

If you want your tree to last (and more people have bought in November than ever) position your Christmas tree away from any heat sources such as radiators and fireplaces.

Water

Your tree is thirsty. Place your tree in plain water - not soil or sand - which would block the pores in the bark. This is best achieved by using a specially designed Christmas tree stand. Many precious hours can be wasted trying to make a Christmas tree stand up straight in an ordinary bucket using just bricks or stones.

More water!

Your Christmas tree may drink 2-3 pints (1-2 litres) of water per day, depending on its size and your central heating settings. This is very important as once the water level drops below the tree’s trunk, sap will re-seal the bark within a few hours, preventing the tree from drinking any further water.

Your local Pines and Needle are in:

Wimbledon Park

Wandsworth

Battersea Park

Kingston

Barnes

Your Local Christmas Forest:

Dulwich

Battersea

Richmond

Putney