With the beginning of December comes the time to prepare for the New Year, and one of the first steps is choosing a tree. We went to stores and tree markets to find out how much this important holiday attribute costs this year.
The minimum price for artificial trees is about 4,000 soms, while live trees start at 5,000 soms. Over the year, prices have increased by approximately 20-30 percent, and sometimes the difference between live and artificial options becomes insignificant.
Prices for live trees
This year, live trees have become more expensive again. In Bishkek, you can find various types: firs, blue spruces, and Tien Shan spruces. Sellers note that in the run-up to the holidays, the demand for coniferous trees significantly increases, and they sell up to seven trees a day.
A one-meter Tien Shan spruce will cost about 3,000 soms. A one-and-a-half-meter beauty will cost 8,000, while a two-meter tree costs more than 15,000 soms and up.
Prices for live spruces in nurseries in Bishkek range from 3,000 to 70,000 soms, depending on the species, height, and fullness. Sometimes delivery is included in the price. Sellers emphasize that compared to last year, the price of trees has increased on average by 2,000 soms.
Such trees can be purchased in pots or with a root ball and planted in the garden after the holidays.
Caring for a potted tree
If you decide to buy a potted tree with the intention of planting it later, there are a few nuances. First of all, it is better to purchase the tree 5-7 days before the New Year. After buying, do not immediately bring it into the house — it is recommended to leave the tree on the balcony or in the hallway for a few days.
When the tree is in a warm environment, it should be watered. For a tree that is 1 meter tall, about 3 liters of settled water will be needed. If the tree stays indoors until mid-January, watering should be repeated ten days after the first.
It is important to place the tree away from heating appliances and fireplaces.
Artificial trees
The assortment of artificial trees in the markets and stores of Bishkek is very diverse. You can choose a product for any taste and budget. Artificial trees can look just as attractive as live ones, but their prices are often high as well.
Artificial trees are available almost everywhere, so do not rush to spend money on the first one that catches your eye. It is better to look at several options and make an informed choice.
Small trees 70-80 cm tall cost from 2,000 to 3,000 soms and are perfect for placement, for example, in an office or kitchen. There are both classic green and more original options, such as marshmallow-pink.
Prices for artificial trees range from 4,000 to 30,000 soms depending on height, fullness, and quality.
The lower the price, the shorter the lifespan of the product. The artificial snow coating and needles can quickly shed. Therefore, it is wise to spend a little more on a quality product that will last for several years.
It is recommended to purchase artificial trees in specialized stores rather than in markets. Although you can find cheaper options at the market, the quality may be low. In case of a defect, it is usually easier to return the product to a store than to the market.
Safety measures
A decorated tree brings joy to both children and adults, but if not installed correctly, it can become a fire hazard. Both live and artificial trees pose a danger, as the latter are made from easily flammable synthetic materials that release toxic substances when burned.
To avoid trouble, it is important to follow fire safety rules when setting up the tree. In case of a fire, the tree should not block evacuation routes. If a fire occurs, do not attempt to touch the burning tree; it is better to cover it with a thick blanket.
In case of fire, immediately call emergency services at 101 or 112.
Interesting facts about New Year trees
A tree is not always a spruce. In different countries, fir, pine, and even juniper can be used for the New Year tree, which look similar but differ in needles and aroma.
The smell of pine helps reduce stress. The essential oils released by a live tree promote relaxation and create a cozy atmosphere — this is confirmed by research in the field of aromatherapy.
The traditions of decorating trees have changed over time. Previously, trees were decorated with nuts, apples, dried fruits, and candles. Glass ornaments appeared only in the 19th century.
A tree can "drink" water. A cut live tree can absorb up to a liter of water per day, especially in a warm room.
The tallest New Year tree was installed in Mexico and exceeded 110 meters in height.
A spruce can live for hundreds of years. Some spruces in nature can live up to 300-500 years.
Needles do not renew annually. The needles of a spruce live on average 5-7 years, which allows the tree to maintain its green color throughout the year.
