7 Living Christmas Trees To Plant This Holiday

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree. While many of us opt for artificial trees or traditional cut trees, there's a growing trend towards more sustainable and eco-friendly options. Enter living Christmas trees – a wonderful alternative that not only reduces waste but also provides a beautiful and thriving tree for years to come.

Living Christmas trees offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the festive spirit while also contributing to a greener planet. By choosing a living tree, you'll not only avoid the environmental impact of cutting down a tree, but you'll also get to enjoy the benefits of having a real tree in your home without the guilt.

In this article, we'll explore seven stunning living Christmas tree species that you can plant this holiday season. We'll delve into their characteristics, growth habits, and care requirements, so you can make an informed decision and find the perfect tree for your home.

What is a Living Christmas Tree?

A living Christmas tree is a tree that is grown in a container or burlap sack, allowing it to be planted in the ground after the holiday season. This type of tree is perfect for those who want to enjoy the magic of a real Christmas tree without the waste and environmental impact.

Benefits of Living Christmas Trees

Living Christmas trees offer numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced waste: By choosing a living tree, you'll avoid contributing to the millions of trees that end up in landfills each year.
• Environmental benefits: Living trees continue to grow and thrive, providing oxygen and habitats for wildlife.
• Cost-effective: While the initial cost of a living tree may be higher, it can be enjoyed for years to come, making it a cost-effective option.
• Unique experience: Enjoy the process of caring for and watching your tree grow, creating a special holiday tradition.

7 Living Christmas Tree Species to Plant This Holiday

Now that we've explored the benefits of living Christmas trees, let's dive into seven stunning species that you can plant this holiday season.

1.

Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

The Norway Spruce is a popular Christmas tree species, known for its dark green needles and conical shape. It grows up to 100 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

2.

Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri)

The Fraser Fir is a stunning species, characterized by its dark green needles and pyramidal shape. It grows up to 50 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.

3.

Blue Spruce (Picea pungens)

The Blue Spruce is a beautiful species, known for its striking blue-gray needles and conical shape. It grows up to 100 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

4.

White Pine (Pinus strobus)

The White Pine is a majestic species, characterized by its soft needles and broad, irregular shape. It grows up to 150 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

5.

Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)

The Douglas Fir is a popular Christmas tree species, known for its soft needles and conical shape. It grows up to 100 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

6.

Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens var. glauca)

The Colorado Blue Spruce is a stunning species, characterized by its striking blue-gray needles and conical shape. It grows up to 50 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

7.

Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris)

The Scotch Pine is a hardy species, known for its twisted trunk and branches. It grows up to 60 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

Caring for Your Living Christmas Tree

To ensure your living Christmas tree thrives, follow these care tips:

• Water regularly: Living trees need consistent moisture, especially during the holiday season.
• Provide humidity: Mist your tree regularly to maintain humidity and prevent drying out.
• Maintain temperature: Keep your tree away from heating vents and radiators, as extreme temperatures can cause stress.
• Fertilize: Feed your tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Final Thoughts

Living Christmas trees offer a unique and sustainable way to enjoy the holiday season. By choosing a living tree, you'll not only reduce waste but also create a special holiday tradition that can be enjoyed for years to come. Remember to care for your tree properly, and don't hesitate to reach out to a local nursery or gardening expert for advice.

We'd love to hear about your experiences with living Christmas trees! Share your stories, tips, and favorite species in the comments below.