If you prefer a Living Christmas Tree, you’ll enjoy the added benefit of being able to plant it after the holidays. These trees come in containers with their root ball intact, allowing them to root and grow outdoors once the season ends. Just remember, live trees should be kept inside for no more than five days to ensure success after planting.
When selecting your living Christmas Tree, think about its future size. Some conifers can grow up to 50 feet tall! Choose a dwarf variety, or a narrow columnar variety, if you have limited space.
Look for a healthy tree with vibrant needles, keep in mind that it is perfectly normal for conifers to drop some needles over the fall and winter months. However, it should only be the interior needles. If you are looking at a living tree that is losing needles on the ends of the branches, that tree is likely in distress and would not be a good option for a living Christmas tree.
Don’t forget to measure your space. Living trees come with root balls, making them taller and wider than cut trees. For this reason, you will want to choose a living tree that is in a container and not B&B (balled in burlap). Keep this in mind when measuring your space. The space under the branches is perfect for tucking in some gifts.
Remember, you’ll need to care for your tree both indoors and out. Keep the root ball cool and moist while inside. After the holidays, gradually reintroduce it to outdoor temperatures before planting.
EXPERT TIP: When choosing a Live Christmas tree you’ll want to dig your hole to plant it before the ground freezes. Then, after you’ve acclimated it back to winter conditions, you can just pop it in the hole, easy peasy.
With proper care, your living Christmas tree can become a lasting part of your landscape and a visual reminder of the joy you had over the holiday season. It’s a gift that keeps on giving!