Is it possible to replant a Christmas tree? Last Christmas, while decorating our purchased Christmas tree, I wondered if this beautiful evergreen could be replanted. It seemed like a shame that such a nice tree was cut down, only to be discarded in a few weeks. And, the fact that we definitely could use the evergreen for some landscaping, as we built our home in the middle of a corn field didn’t help. I couldn’t get over the idea that it would look really nice in our backyard! I did some research and found out that a purchased Christmas tree could actually be replanted. Depending on your climate zone and your knack for extreme tender loving care, replanting a Christmas tree is quite possible. Here are a few factors to keep in mind before considering replanting your Christmas tree:
- Do you have a good nursery nearby that will furnish you with an evergreen that will transplant well? Most experts suggest pine spruce or fir. Also, it is imperative that the roots are carefully placed in burlap once the evergreen is removed from the ground.
- Are you prepared to pay more? A cut down Christmas tree will run you around $ 20-$ 100, but a tree purchased to replant later with the roots intact will cost you doubled.
- Can you take care of the roots properly while the tree is waiting to be replanted? Even a regular cut down Christmas tree needs to be watered so it does not dry up, however a tree with the roots intact needs extra watering and care. By placing the tree ball in a large tub that is replenished with water regularly, you have a better chance to make sure the tree gets enough moisture. Keeping the tree straight so it doesn’t tip over could be a little tricky. I’m not sure how the tree stand plays into the picture. I guess you have to be a little creative. Also, you will want to cover the whole thing up somehow for the holiday. You can cover the tub with a large blanket and then a tree skirt. Experts suggest that you do not have the tree indoors for more than 2 weeks, so you have to replant the tree pretty much right away.
- Does your climate zone experience freezing during the winter months? If so, you may have to dig the hole before the ground freezes. The only draw back is that you have to guess how big to dig the hole.
These are only a few tips. There are many websites available to help you replant an evergreen. One of the most important points is to make sure the tree is watered regularly. That could be tricky too during the winter, especially if you live in the North.