On 10 November 2026, retailers and growers in several German states reported changing purchasing habits: more and more households are putting up a Christmas tree during Advent near the Christmas tree or opting for an additional second tree. According to MDR Retail surveys show rising demand for smaller trees for indoor spaces, balconies and terraces, while the larger main tree is bought closer to Christmas or decorated later.
Retailers cite the longer decorating season during Advent and the desire to wait until just before Christmas to decorate the living room. At the same time, SWR at the Tagesschauregional reporting points out that putting a tree up too early in heated rooms without taking appropriate care increases the risk of it drying out and shedding its needles. Specialist businesses recommend making a fresh cut, storing the tree somewhere cool in the meantime, using a sturdy stand with a large water reservoir and topping it up regularly to keep the tree fresh until Christmas.
The The Federal Association of Christmas Tree Growers confirms that underlying demand for real trees remains high. Businesses also point to rising production and logistics costs, and the need to adapt harvesting, transport and temporary storage to earlier purchasing dates. Prices and ranges vary from region to region, partly because weather conditions and land availability differ.
The Federal Environment Agency recommends checking the tree’s origin and certification. Organically certified and locally grown trees generally travel shorter distances and may be subject to stricter rules on plant protection products. Consumers should check labels and information displayed at sales points. The Nordmann fir remains popular for its needle retention; even so, anyone putting one up early in Advent should make sure it is kept somewhere cool before decorating and is given a consistent supply of water.
Retailers are responding to the trend with a wider range: more compact sizes and potted trees for temporary outdoor use, sales starting earlier in some cases, and additional care advice. local authorities In some areas, they expect a wider range of collection dates, as secondary trees may be discarded earlier. Overall, this is a trend that varies from region to region. Industry statements refer to current observations during the 2026 season; reliable figures for the total nationwide volume are so far available only in part. Forecasts for future demand therefore remain cautious and depend on the weather, prices and consumers’ plans during Advent.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).