How to Care for your Living Christmas Tree

If you’d like an alternative to a cut or an artificial holiday tree, a living tree might be a good option. Before you buy, think ahead. Where will you want to plant the tree in spring? When you know where it will go, choose a conifer that will work well in that spot.

When you bring your tree home, decide whether you will keep it outdoors or bring it inside. If you leave it outside, put it where you can see it from inside the house. Add lights, sturdy ornaments, and treats for the birds. Making decorations for the birds is a fun activity for families, and watching the birds is an added reward.

If you bring your tree indoors, keep in mind that these trees are dormant now and need to stay cool to avoid “waking up.” Put it into a cool room, under 70 degrees, and away from any heat source. Use LED lights, which are cool, to keep from heating the foliage. If the tree gets too warm, it will break dormancy and start to grow. At that point, it will suffer cold damage when you put it back outside.

Keep your tree indoors only 7 – 10 days. When you move it back outside, give it a transition period by putting it into an unheated garage or sheltered porch for a few days. Don’t let it dry out. When weather permits, move it outside. Plant your tree in the ground in late winter.