Christmas tree magic... and its roots

The history behind our festive firs is fascinating and reminds us of brighter times soon to come

- With DIARMUID GAVIN

Here are many festive traditions that are plant related. Whether it's holly and ivy decking the halls or kissing under the mistletoe, decorating our indoor space with greenery is a longstanding custom. It's likely to date back to pagan times, as a celebration of the winter solstice, which occurs today.

It's the shortest day of the year but from tomorrow, the days begin to lengthen, very gradually. It makes sense that our ancestors would bring in evergreen material to symbolise spring was on the way and hope is eternal.

Central to all this greenery is of course the Christmas tree. This is a big business with an estimated five to seven million trees sold every year in the UK. The Nordmann Fir is the most popular with its symmetrical appearance, and good needle retention and its strong branches are good for holding decorations.