Can You Replant a Christmas Tree?

Ah, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. Yes, we know it’s January. And, no, this is not an old post. Holidays are not coming, they are over. Finally. Now’s the time to queue at shopping centres trying to cash in the reindeer cushions, renew your gym membership, and roll your eyes at all the “new year, new me” posts flooding your feed. Magic!

And while you’re going through articles on how to blast away your holiday bulge, take some time to see how in addition to making positive changes to yourself, you can also make a positive change for the environment.

How you may ask? Well by simply replanting your Christmas tree. This way you can enjoy it and decorate it for years to come. But is it possible and under what conditions? We’ll explain it all here!

Will a Christmas tree grow if you replant it?

Yes, it’s possible for your festive tree to grow, however, only if it has a healthy root system in place. Therefore, it’s very unlikely for a cut-off tree to grow again even after replanting. The root system is what sustains the tree and what guarantees the further development of the plant.

So when you are deciding on what Christmas tree to get, it’s best to purchase a tree with a well-developed root system that comes with a burlap covering.  

Also, for a successful transplant, it would be best if you’ve kept the tree inside for no more than 10 days. The indoor conditions are very important, as a Christmas tree is most likely to thrive when placed away from heat sources such as fireplaces or radiators. 

Sufficient watering is also essential because when there’s enough moisture the root ball stays hydrated and healthy. You can be sure that you are doing a good job by the condition and smell of your tree. The needles need to be fresh and green, and there shouldn’t be bad odours coming from the trunk. 

So an evergreen with an intact root system can not only keep its good looks all through the holiday season but also after it has served its festive functions. It will make a great addition to a large garden, even if no longer glammed up with baubles, seizure-inducing twinkle lights, and finery of all sorts.

Benefits of replanting your Christmas tree

Maybe you are still not convinced that replanting your tree in the garden is the right way to go. Then let us just pinpoint some of the advantages of giving your tree a second life after the holidays.

Are you short on time? Then take advantage of a gardening professional’s help for everything related to your Christmas tree!

How to successfully replant your Christmas tree

Finally, it’s time to look into the most important step – the transplanting process itself. Select a mild day to plant the tree when the ground is not frozen.

1. Choose the best place for your tree

If you have enough space in your garden, choose a spot for the Christmas tree which is not exposed to strong winds but open to sunlight. As for the soil – it is ideal to have loose, non-clay soil to allow for proper drainage. 

High-alkaline soil is not recommended. The plot needs to be cleared of any weeds, grass or brush. These and other factors heavily influence the choice of what Christmas tree to buy.

2. Acclimate the tree

Before replanting the tree, give it a few days to re-enter dormancy by keeping it in a cool sheltered area outside.

You can store the tree in an unheated garage or shed for a few days, helping it gradually acclimatise to reduced temperatures.  During this period, keep its roots wet but not soggy; modest hydration will assist in alleviating the stress of rapid temperature fluctuations. Once it’s suitably adapted, you may plant it in well-drained soil with lots of organic matter.

3. Dig the planting hole

You want your tree’s roots to move freely in their new home, so dig a hole at least twice (five times would be even better) wider than the root ball and just deep enough to cradle it without burying any of its delicate roots.

This large area provides for maximum airflow and soil contact, promoting vigorous growth while reducing waterlogging. Don’t forget about drainage; if your garden tends to pool after rain, consider adding a drainage system.

4. Remove the burlap

Remove the burlap from the root ball and all other coverings. Be careful when you do it, as the roots are delicate and you don’t want to damage them.

5. Place the tree into the hole and cover it

Gently place the tree into the hole, again carefully so no harm comes to the root ball. Backfill with the excavated soil and tamp gently every layer.

Consider covering the hole with several inches of mulch to sustain the tree during the colder months ahead. You can also protect the tree with a screen. You can use old pallets and draperies.

6. Water deeply

As we’ve mentioned before, watering is very important for a Christmas tree, regardless of its type. So once the tree is in the ground, make sure you hydrate it and set it up for a good start.