Christmas is fast approaching, and many of us are on the lookout for this year's Christmas tree. But, this is a delicate art - especially when you live in busy London and have to navigate countless tree-buying options,

According to Michigan State University, a healthy, living Christmas tree can absorb "up to 1 quart of water per day for each inch of diameter on the cut end." That means a tree with a trunk three inches in diameter would need three quarts per day. A properly sized tree stand will hold enough water for your tree's needs.

If you want a soft glow, multiply the height of your tree in feet by 100. If you want a bright sparkle, multiply the height of your tree in feet by 200. For example, if your tree is 6 feet tall, you’ll want 600 lights for a soft glow and 1,200 lights for a bright sparkle.

For a real tree, she suggests "lighter decorations and glass, wood, paper or dried fruit for an organic look" whilst placing heavier pieces close to the trunk. Whereas the "stronger branches" of fake trees "are perfect for heavier ornaments and structured ribbon, and can take bolder colours such as metallics.