Why do we do it?! Cut down a tree each year, bring it into the house, decorate it with baubles and lights? It all sounds a bit mad when you think about it, doesn't it!
The tradition started long before Christianity, when plants and trees that were evergreen in winter had special meaning for people. It represented hope during a cold winter that the spring and summer would shortly arrive.
The modern day idea of a traditional tree began in Germany. In the 7th century, a monk spreading the word of God used the shape of the fir tree to describe the Holy Trinity of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The converted Christians saw the fir tree as a symbol of God. Fast forward to the 16th century when Martin Luther is said to have decorated a small Christmas tree with candles to show his children how the stars twinkled through the night.
The first Christmas tree arrived in England with the Georgian Kings who were of German descent. The tradition did not pass onto Britain until the arrival of Queen Victoria and her German Prince Albert. Whatever Victoria did was immediately fashionable and so was born the Christmas tree as we know it today!
How to keep your Christmas tree looking great this Christmas!
Most Christmas trees in Ireland are non-shed Christmas trees such as ‘Noble Fir’ and ‘Nordmann Fir.’ Here are some of our top tips to keep your tree looking festive throughout the Christmas holidays:
After you bring your Christmas tree home, keep it in a cool place away from radiators or other sources of heat.
When choosing your Christmas tree, always try to get a fresh cut made on the bottom so that the tree can absorb water.
Once the tree is in the watering stand, keep the water topped up so that an airlock does not occur. Watch out for family pets such as the dog! Dogs seem to love to drink the water from the stand. I know it's my dog's favourite thing to do!!
Have a very happy Christmas from all at the Pavilion!
Marianne Caplice, Horticulturalist
Powerscourt Garden Pavilion - Your local Garden Centre in Wicklow
The modern day idea of a traditional tree began in Germany. In the 7th century, a monk spreading the word of God used the shape of the fir tree to describe the Holy Trinity of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The converted Christians saw the fir tree as a symbol of God. Fast forward to the 16th century when Martin Luther is said to have decorated a small Christmas tree with candles to show his children how the stars twinkled through the night.
The first Christmas tree arrived in England with the Georgian Kings who were of German descent. The tradition did not pass onto Britain until the arrival of Queen Victoria and her German Prince Albert. Whatever Victoria did was immediately fashionable and so was born the Christmas tree as we know it today!
