Christmas Tree Shortage and Price Rise Expected This Year
Shoppers are advised to buy their Christmas trees early to avoid disappointment, as a plant expert warns of a shortage this season caused by adverse growing conditions.
Causes of the Shortage
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, explains that a combination of climate change and poor weather has led to fewer quality Christmas trees being available this year. Late frosts in May damaged young trees in Denmark, Poland, and Scotland. Subsequently, hot weather stressed the remaining trees, slowing their growth and reducing the overall supply.
Impact on Prices
The reduced supply is expected to drive prices up this year. Bonnett highlights that growers are also struggling with increased transport and labor costs, which will likely cause prices to rise further in the future.
“Unfortunately we’re seeing a shortage in supply of quality Christmas trees this year due to weather conditions during spring and summer. Late frosts combined with heatwaves and general climate change issues have stunted the growth of many trees from Europe, leaving growers with less quality trees to sell.”
— Chris Bonnett, GardeningExpress.co.uk
“It’s no surprise that growers are also facing higher transport and labour costs and as always this price rise is being passed on to consumers.”
— Chris Bonnett, GardeningExpress.co.uk
Advice for Consumers
Given these challenges, it is recommended to purchase Christmas trees early this year to secure one before supplies run out and prices rise further.
Author’s summary: Climate change and extreme weather have created a shortage of quality Christmas trees in Europe, leading to higher prices and urging shoppers to buy early.