The tree is the centrepiece of our celebrations – in fact, it’s estimated that 85 per cent* of UK homes put one up. But when it comes to sustainability, which is better – real or fake? Let’s crunch the numbers…

Amy McCormack, senior gardener at the National Trust’s Anglesey Abbey, on planting for winter colour and scent and protecting perennials from frost

For instant impact in a newly landscaped garden, there’s nothing quite like planting mature trees or native hedgerow plants for transformative and long-lasting results, believes Steven Desmond

After all the fun of decking the tree, no one wants drooping branches and dropped needles. Here’s how to keep yours looking good for longer

John and Jenny Brett have created an all-year garden design at St Mary’s, combining formal plant structures with colourful insect-friendly perennials, but in winter, when dusted with white and dancing with shadows, the garden shimmers

Though the cheerful chest of a robin can be seen throughout the year, this friendly bird has become synonymous with the festive season. This largely dates back to Victorian Christmas cards depicting p