Do you want to remember this Christmas for many years to come?  Would you like to help the environment at the same time?  Then consider planting your Christmas tree after the holidays.  Read on to learn how to do it the right way.

            Start out by choosing the right tree specie.  Study the space you have available inside, as well as the planting location outside.  Select a tree that will fit within both places well.  In our region, we recommend choosing a tree from the following list: Norway spruce; white pine; blue spruce; Scotch pine; or Douglas fir.

It’s easier to deal with a smaller tree, especially when you take into consideration the weight of the root ball.   It’s best to buy a tree with the root ball wrapped in burlap from a local nursery or tree farm.  Be sure to handle it with care during transport and avoid damaging the root ball itself.  Once you get it inside, place the tree in a galvanized bucket and use a few large rocks to prop it up.  Additionally, put mulch around the root ball to help keep it from drying out. 

Pre-dig the planting hole because the ground tends to be frozen after the holidays in January.  Put the dirt on a tarp or in a wheelbarrow, then bring it into the garage, shed or other shelter.  Place straw in the planting hole to keep it from freezing.  

Locate the tree away from sources of heat or dry air such as fireplaces, kitchens, or air ducts and avoid direct sunlight.  Instead of watering the traditional way, a good way to prevent damage caused by overwatering is to place ice cubes on top of the root ball.  As it melts, water slowly becomes available to the roots.  You want to avoid standing water in the bucket that can cause root decay.  Spray the tree with an anti-desiccant to help keep the needles from drying out.  Be careful when placing lights and ornaments on the branches so you avoid damaging the delicate tissue.

After the holidays, adapt the tree to the outside climate by first putting it in your garage or by a sheltered outside wall for a couple of weeks.  If it starts out in the garage, move it to a sheltered outside wall for another week or two.  Keep an eye on the long-range weather forecast.  If there’s going to be a period of mild weather, plant the tree immediately.

Plant the tree in a location that is protected from wind, preferably behind an existing evergreen tree.  Remove the burlap from the trunk and root ball during planting.  For more information on proper planting techniques, click onto the following link: http://www.growingearth.com/content/tree-planting-tips

In the coming years, your Christmas tree can be decorated with lights outside on your property to give your family many years of future Christmas cheer.