We have a real tree every year. put it on about the 18th down on 12th day. it lasts well and looks as good the last day as the first. It's worth buying a non-drop variety and make sure the stand you use has a water bowl for the tree to stand in, it's amazing how much water they use. Also if you can cut an inch from the base so it has a fresh cut surface in the water it's better .
. Oh I think i will get a fake one this year.....sounds of rioting family in background!!
My Mum buys a real tree every year, she stands it in a bucket of water in the shed for 2 days, then brings it indoors. The 2 days in the cold stops the needles from dropping, and you just need to keep the water topped up in the tree holder.
We have one every year and they last about 4 weeks, if you cant stand it in water put a full pan of water next to it and keep it as far from the radiator as poss
It depends on what sort of tree you choose. I think Nordman Firs are non shedding. I usually buy mine around the middle of the month and it lasts till new year. Ask at the retailers which is the best sort. Happy Christmas.
Thanks very much for all your answers - I wimped out in the end and went for a fake one (with a two year old son and a puppy it didn't seem a practical idea in the end - maybe next year!) Merry Christmas All xx