Choosing a live Christmas tree over a cut one can be a good decision for the environment.You can replant the tree when you are done and enjoy it for years to come, because you get to enjoy a beloved holiday tradition.
Step 1: The root ball needs to be checked for damage.
If you want the root ball to move with the trunk, move the tree side to side.The base of the trunk should not move inside the root ball, which is indicative of damaged roots.If this is the case, you should not plant a tree.The only way to replant a Christmas tree is to buy one that still has a root ball.A cut Christmas tree cannot be replanted.
Step 2: Limit the amount of time your tree is outside.
You should buy a Christmas tree as close to Christmas as possible.The longer your tree is inside, the more exposed it is to drying conditions that will weaken it.If you plant the tree within 6 weeks, you will have the best chance of success.If you want to minimize the wear and tear on the tree before moving it to an outdoor location, lightly decorate it instead of covering it with lights and ornaments.
Step 3: The tree should be in a cool spot.
It is best to keep the window out of the sun.It's best not to put it near a heating vent, fireplace, or stove.
Step 4: The soil should be moist.
It's important to water your tree daily to keep it healthy.To achieve a more gradual and steady watering, try putting ice cubes on top of the root ball.
Step 5: The tree should be moved to an outdoor space.
After spending 1-2 weeks inside your warm home, allow your tree to acclimate back to the cold.If you want to leave it there for a week, place it outside in a cool sheltered spot.Water it daily during this time.
Step 6: There is an open, sunny planting spot.
You can research the type of tree you have.It should not outgrow the spot you choose for it.Since roots and limbs could eventually cause problems for the structures, look for a sunny spot that is several feet from your house or fencing.Christmas trees are best at higher altitudes and may not be suited to an urban area.
Step 7: In the season, dig the hole early.
If you wait until Christmas to dig the hole, the ground will freeze, so plan ahead and do it in the fall.If the ground is already frozen, try pouring boiling water onto the spot and then digging.
Step 8: It's not deep to dig wide.
To give the roots a chance to spread, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and use a shovel.You do not want the root ball to be too far below the soil level.It will help with drainage if it is slightly higher than the soil around it.
Step 9: You need to save the soil.
The dirt you dig out of the hole should not be thrown away.You will use this later to fill the hole.It can be put in a garage or shed.
Step 10: The root ball coverings need to be removed.
The root ball of your tree may have been wrapped in plastic, so make sure nothing remains around it when you are ready to plant.
Step 11: The hole has a tree in it.
Depending on the size of the tree, this may require two people.You should try to get it as close to centered as possible.Before you can fill in the hole, hold it upright.
Step 12: The hole needs to be filled back in.
Take the soil out of the hole and put it into the empty spaces around the tree's root ball.Don't pack the soil in tightly.
Step 13: The tree has just been planted.
Water the soil around the tree with a hose or watering can.The only thing you need to do is drink plain water.
Step 14: There is mulch around the tree.
The base of the tree should be covered with mulch.Old leaves can be placed on top of the soil for a similar effect.
Step 15: Monitor the soil's hydration.
The tree needs to be observed for the rest of the winter.Water the tree occasionally if the winter weather is dry.Water the tree if you don't get a lot of rain during the spring growing season.
Step 16: To keep the tree upright, stake it.
The stakes should be placed away from the roots but still within the mulched area.Use canvas straps to tie the tree to the stakes.After about a year, the stakes can be removed.