You can’t have Christmas without thinking about when you will buy or bring down your Christmas tree from the attic and start to decorate it. Once the tree is decorated, you get the feeling Christmas is just around the corner and that the holiday season has started. For many, decorating the Christmas tree is a family tradition where everyone is involved.
It is hard to imagine having a Christmas without a Christmas tree! I mean, where is Santa going to put all his presents when he comes down the chimnea if there isn’t a Christmas Tree!
A quick history of the Christmas tree
In the UK, we have had the tradition of bringing greenery into the home to celebrate Christmas. There are records from the 15th Century that state how holly and ivy are brought into the home. This is where the classic Christmas song the Holly and the Ivy came from.
However, in 16th century Germany, the tradition of bringing in a tree and decorating it started. This tradition arrived in the UK when Queen Charlotte, married to George III, set up a tree in one of the royal lodges in 1800. However, it only became popular due to Prince Albert when he married Queen Victoria in 1841. Ever since Christmas trees and decorating them have been an essential part of Christmas festivities.
The type of tree used
In the UK, evergreen trees are used, such as a spruce or fir tree, with the three most recommended being the Norway Spruce, Nordmann Fir and Lodgepole Pine. The Nordmann Fir is currently the most popular tree because it doesn’t drop as many needles as the others, so are more child and pet friendly.
Why get a real tree?
- It is good for the environment – when growing, they provide shelter for wildlife and reduce our carbon footprint
- They smell great – walking downstairs to the smell of Christmas every morning is fantastic.
- It’s fun for all the family to go and find the perfect tree
- It is good for the local economy
Many people don’t like getting a living Christmas tree due to getting rid of it afterwards. However, Christmas trees are easily recyclable.
What’s more, many Christmas trees can be replanted. You can keep growing your own Christmas tree year after year!
How do you replant Christmas trees?
Replant a cut Christmas tree
You will struggle to replant a cut Christmas tree as it has no root structure intact.
When you go to buy a Christmas tree, you need to ensure the tree still has its root ball. That means it still has its roots intact. This will usually be covered in a burlap or a plastic bag. It will also be easier to buy a smaller tree, as it will have a higher chance of survival. You will also not be able to keep your Christmas tree inside for as long over Christmas, unlike a cut tree with no root ball.
I have my Christmas tree with a root ball; what’s next?
- Once bought, keep it outside in the cold until the time you need it to make sure it stays in a dormant state for as long as possible.
- When ready to bring it the tree indoors, keep it in a draft-free area, away from heaters and vents.
- Wrap the root ball in plastic or sphagnum moss – the root ball must stay damp the entire time it is inside.
- Decorate as normal with your favourite decorations.
Christmas is over
- Place the tree back outside, in a cold sheltered area for 1 or 2 weeks – this is so the tree can re-enter dormancy.
- Make sure you have a hole ready to plant your tree – the hole should be dug before the ground becomes frozen.
- Remove the root coverings and place it in the hole.
- Backfill the hole
- Cover the hole with 5-10cm of mulch (mulch consists of wood shavings, compost and other organic matter)
- Water your tree.
- Fertilise your tree during the spring.
Replanting a potted Christmas tree
You can now buy potted Christmas trees. A potted tree is also known as a container-grown tree. These are much easier to reuse year on year.
I have my potted Christmas tree; what’s next?
- Once bought, keep it outside in the cold until the time you need it to make sure it stays in a dormant state for as long as possible.
- When ready to bring it inside, keep it in a draft-free area, away from heat sources and vents.
- Make sure it is well watered – ensure the pot has good drainage. Remember, too much water will harm your tree and cause root damage.
- Decorate
- Do not keep it for longer than 12 days inside
Christmas is over
- Place the tree back outside, in a cold sheltered area for 1 or 2 weeks – this is so the tree can re-enter dormancy.
- Make sure you have a hole ready to place your tree.
- Remove the root ball from its coverings and place it in the hole.
- Backfill the hole
- Cover the hole with 5-10cm of mulch (mulch consists of wood shavings, compost etc.)
- Water your tree.
- Fertilise your tree during the spring.
Or you can keep your tree in its pot instead of replanting it into the ground. It is good to re pot your tree into a larger pot or larger container during spring. Keeping it in a pot will enable you to bring it back inside next Christmas!
A Christmas tree for years to come
Getting a real Christmas tree is a highlight for many people every year. The smell and the decorating will always get you into the festive spirit. However, the thought of wasting a tree afterwards puts many people off. By replanting a Christmas tree or getting a potted Christmas tree, you don’t need to worry about disposing of or the thought of waste.
Replanting your Christmas tree takes some planning. You will be able to grow your own Christmas tree and have something beautiful to decorate outside every year. Or with the potted variety, you can even bring it back inside year on year (you will need help, though, as it may get heavy to move). Looking after the tree could be an excellent task for younger family members and they will enjoy it for many Christmases to come.
Next Christmas, are you going to replant your Christmas tree?
