Leeds Christmas tree farm boom as families ditch plastic

A Leeds Christmas tree farm have increased their sales for the fifth consecutive year, as more people are now opting for traditional trees.

Since opening on the 22nd of November, Methley Estate Farm has sold more than 1800 trees, and expected to sell more than 2000 before Christmas.

James Shippen, one of the farmers said “we have a field which is solely dedicated to Christmas trees which we grow all year round, and we do rely on selling trees quite a lot, especially in the winter period.”

The switch from fake trees increased after the pandemic, where people have recently chosen the more environmentally friendly option.

Source: Toby Almond | All Rights Reserved

The farm grows a variety of trees such as the Norway Spruce and Nordmann Fir.

Steve Wombwell, a farm manager said: “Demand is going well and it’s increasing every year.

“There was a huge boost during COVID, where the restrictions ended just before Christmas and so people who had a plastic tree decided to treat themselves to a real one.

“Real trees also look better, and plastic ones are imported from China and people are definitely getting more sensitive to that kind of thing,” he added.

The Carbon Trust found that a two-metre artificial tree, has a carbon footprint of around 40kg, which is more than 10 times the amount of a real tree being burned.

Plastic trees would need to be re-used 10 times to offset it’s carbon footprint, but it is estimated that the average fake tree is only used four times before thrown away.

Source: Toby Almond | All Rights Reserved

“A lot of patience is needed for growing these kind of firs and spruces, they only grow about one foot a year, so it’s vital to keep them watered and fed to be ready for Christmas,” said Mr Shippen.

Many locals enjoy chopping down their own tree from the farm instead of buying one at a supermarket and turn it into an annual family tradition.

Claire Lee, from Fir Tree View, Methley, buys her tree from the farm every year: “I’ve been getting my tree from Methley Farm since they started selling them, and I love going with my daughters and family.

“It creates a lovely vibe in the village and it’s lovely to support a home grown business,” she added.

Christmas trees are on sale at Methley Estate Farm until the 21st of December.

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