Christmas tree felling underway in the Black Isle
The felling of mature Christmas trees is well under way in the Black Isle as growers send them to supermarkets across the UK.
The felling of mature Christmas trees is well under way in the Black Isle as growers send them to supermarkets across the UK.
The trees at this 2,500 acre farm near Inverness are destined for Waitrose branches around the country.
Taking up to 12 years to grow from seed, only premium grade trees will make it on to one of the 20 lorries heading to the stores now and over the next week.
The Nordmann Fir is said to be the most popular variety of Christmas tree with shoppers, thanks to its bushy shape and good needle retention.
Victoria Mason, a Christmas tree buyer for the supermarket, said: There's nothing like the smell of fresh pine to tell you it's Christmas and these trees will be the latest sign in our shops that Christmas is on its way.''
All Waitrose trees are grown in the Black Isle and range from eight to 14 years in age, depending on their height.
For every tree that is cut at the farm, at least one is subsequently planted the following spring.
Gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh told the store's magazine, Waitrose Weekend: Ever since I got married 40 years ago, a real Christmas tree has taken centre stage in our living room. Going to choose the perfect specimen is one of the key moments of our family Christmas.
My first choice is a Nordmann fir because, with minimal attention, it will reliably keep its needles until the New Year.''