Caring for a Living Christmas Tree

• A living Christmas tree is an evergreen tree growing in a container or balled and burlapped in soil. These live trees may be used indoors as a Christmas tree then planted outdoors where they can be enjoyed for years to come.

• Pines, spruce, cedars, and junipers are most suitable for uses as a living Christmas tree. TLC Garden Centers stock these in several varieties and sizes.

• The main consideration in a living Christmas tree is that it should only be kept in the house for 5-7 days and not exceed 10 days. The fewer days inside the home the better the survival rate will be when planted outdoors.

• Be sure the root ball has been well watered before bringing the tree indoors. Monitor the dampness of the root ball. It does not need to stay wet but should be damp while inside. If it becomes dry, placing ice on top of the root ball will be the easiest way to provide moisture.

• Cloud Cover or Wilt Pruf are anti-transpirants which reduce the natural rate water passes thru the needles prolonging the freshness of the tree. Spray the tree foliage outdoors and let dry before bringing into the house. This can be done again when removed from the house. They are available in a ready to spray bottle.

• Keep Christmas lights on the tree to a minimum and do not place the tree close to a heater vent, fan, or fireplace.

• When removing the tree from the house, acclimate it to the outside temperatures by keeping it in the garage or closed patio for a couple of days before planting.

Follow regular tree planting instructions and water as needed through the winter.

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