Welcome to our guide on how to help care for a living Christmas tree, an eco-friendly and sustainable way to celebrate the festive season!
A living Christmas tree is a tree that retains its roots, which allows it to thrive for many years to come if properly maintained. They should not be confused with cut “real” trees as these are cut just above ground level, and although they will stay green for several weeks (if they are kept watered), they will not live long into the New Year.
In this blog, we share some expert tips and advice to help ensure your living Christmas tree remains healthy, vibrant, and a cherished part of your business for years to come.
Select the right living Christmas tree for your business:
Choose the right species: Select a tree species that is suitable for the look you want and your climate. Common options include spruces, firs, and pines.
Consider size: Measure the space where you plan to plant the tree after the festive season to ensure it will fit comfortably and will not damage or impact other plants. If you intend to keep your living tree in a container then remember that it will need to be repotted as it grows in order not to become pot-bound.
Inspect for health: Examine the tree for signs of disease, pests, or damage, and choose a healthy, vibrant tree with full, green foliage.
Planting and caring for your living Christmas Tree:
You have chosen your perfect living Christmas tree, now what?
Firstly, you need to ensure your display is safe indoors! When it’s time to bring the tree inside, place it in a cool, well-lit location away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces. You should use LED lights to reduce heat and energy consumption. To avoid stressing the tree, use lightweight, eco-friendly ornaments and decorations, as heavy ornaments could damage its branches.
Water your living tree regularly, and ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. A saucer beneath the pot can help catch excess water. Water is really important for keeping your Christmas tree alive during the holiday season. To do this, you should pick a strong tree pot that can hold plenty of water. You should ideally use a suitable tree pot with a water tank, so you can easily fill it and it also means your tree is always going to be regularly watered, which is a crucial part of its care.
After Christmas care:
Once the festive season is over, follow these simple steps.
Ensure gradual transition: After the Christmas holidays, transition the tree back outdoors gradually to prevent shock. Place it in a sheltered location for a few days before planting it back in the ground.
Replanting: Plant your tree in a prepared hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is just below the ground surface, and backfill the hole with good quality compost
Apply mulch and water: Apply mulch around the base and water the tree regularly to help it establish roots.
Opting for a living Christmas tree is not only a sustainable choice that negates the environmental impact of cutting and disposing of a cut Christmas tree, but is also a rewarding one. Living trees give off a natural, aromatic scent throughout the holiday period, and hopefully enhance your festive atmosphere.
By following these guidelines for selecting, planting, and caring for your living Christmas tree, you can enjoy the Christmas period while contributing to a greener, more eco-friendly future.
