Mother Earth’s Garden

Live Christmas Tree Care

by linette on November 29th, 2007

Are you thinking about getting a living tree for Christmas this year? If you get a dug, and balled Christmas tree here are a few tips to ensure your tree will live through the new year.

When you purchase your tree leave it in an unheated but sheltered spot. If you want to be able to plant your tree after Christmas, go ahead and dig a hole. Save the dirt from the hole in a trash bag stored in a dry place. This will keep the soil from freezing when the weather turns cold.

About 10 days before Christmas place your tree in a garage, or closed in porch for about 3-4 days. While your tree is settling in check it over for bugs. If you find pests give it a quick spray with insecticidal soap.

Bring your tree into the house about 6 to 8 days before Christmas. Place the tree in the coolest part of the house possible, away from heat vents. Place the tree in a large plastic or galvanized tub. Water sparingly. You can spray the branches with an anti-wilt spray to keep the needles from drying out.

After Christmas remove your tree to its permanent home as quickly as possible. Place your tree in the hole you dug a few weeks ago and cover with the soil you’ve reserved. Now you have a great Christmas memory you can enjoy for many years to come.

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POSTED IN: How to Grow Stuff, Trees