Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that lives off the

To grow well, plants need a wide range of nutrients in various amounts, depending on the individual plant and its stage of growth. The three key plant nutrients usually derived from soil are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, while carbon, oxygen and hydrogen are absorbed from the air. Other vital soil nutrients include magnesium, calcium and sulphur. Gardeners can add nutrients by applying fertilisers (either artificial or naturally derived) to boost plant growth and improve flowering and fruiting.

The berries are often spread by birds from one tree to another, and this is how the large rounded clumps of mistletoe form in tree branches.

The most common host tree in the UK is apple, but poplar and lime are also frequent hosts. It is mainly found in the south and west midlands in the UK, with particularly large populations in Herefordshire.

Mistletoe is a popular Christmas plant and decoration. Most mistletoe on sale comes either from the UK or elsewhere in Europe. Look for plants that are freshly gathered (if necessary, ask when it was harvested), with fresh green foliage and ripe white berries that are plump and not withered. Mistletoe will keep for two to three weeks after gathering if it is kept in a cool place such as a shed or garage.

Do not attempt to gather mistletoe without permission from the landowner.

Although mistletoe is spread naturally by birds, it is possible to grow it yourself;

1. Harvest berries from a tree in March or April. Make sure you choose a tree that is similar to the type of tree in your own garden that you wish to establish the mistletoe on.
2. Discard any crushed berries and do not use berries from sprigs used as Christmas decorations. These will not germinate as they are generally harvested when immature.
3. Choose a branch 10cm (4in) or more in girth on a tree that is 15-years-old or more. Ideally this should be fairly high up, so the developing plant receives plenty of light.
4. Find a natural crevice in the bark or make a shallow cut to create a small flap.
5. Remove the seeds from the fleshy berries and insert them into the crevice or under the flap.
6. Finish by covering with hessian to protect the seeds from birds.
7. To ensure greater success, sow quite a few seeds at each site as only one in ten seeds germinate, and both male and female plants are needed for berries to form.

The branch will swell as the mistletoe develops, but don’t expect quick results; plants can take five years or more to reach berrying size.

Mistletoe is generally free of pests and diseases.

If your propagated mistletoe produces flowers but no berries, it means it is most likely a male plant. Where this appears to be the case, try inserting some more seeds on the branches to see if you can even out the balance between male and female plants.