How to Plant a Pot-Grown Christmas Tree in the Garden

A pot-grown Christmas tree offers more than just a festive touch. With a little care, it can flourish and become a lasting part of your garden. This guide will walk you through the planting process, whether you choose to put it directly in the ground or pot it on into a bigger container.

Why Choose a Pot-Grown Christmas Tree?

Pot-grown Christmas trees are ready to go, with their roots already established, which makes them perfect for replanting once the holiday season is over. This allows the tree to continue growing and be enjoyed for many years to come.

Either approach works well, depending on your space and future plans for the tree.

Planting in the Ground

This method is ideal for larger gardens and is best for trees you intend to keep long-term. It allows the roots to expand freely, resulting in a more robust plant that demands less maintenance once established. Just remember, a tree planted this way is not easily relocated.

Potting On into a Larger Container

This is a solid choice for patios and smaller gardens, as it helps control the tree’s growth. It also allows you to bring the tree indoors again in subsequent years. Carefully remove the tree from its pot, gently loosening the roots if needed. Position the tree so it sits level with the soil, backfill, and lightly firm the compost. Water well, then add mulch around the base, ensuring it does not touch the trunk.

Potting Up into a Bigger Container

Select a compost that drains well and is suitable for trees and shrubs. Plant the tree at the same depth as before, gently firm the compost, and give it a thorough watering. Move the container outside to a sheltered, protected spot.

Companion Planting with Christmas Trees

Christmas trees such as spruce, fir, and pine grow well alongside plants that tolerate shade, slightly acidic soil, and root competition. Carefully chosen companion plants help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and add year-round visual interest.

Good companion planting options include:

• Shade-loving plants such as hostas, ferns, heuchera, brunnera, and pulmonaria
• Seasonal flowers including hellebores, primroses, snowdrops, crocus, and hardy cyclamen
• Acid-loving plants such as heather, skimmia, pieris, and dwarf rhododendrons
• Ground cover plants like periwinkle, ajuga, pachysandra, and epimedium

Avoid planting roses, lavender, Mediterranean herbs, or large shrubs near Christmas trees, as they prefer different growing environments. Leave a small, clear area around the trunk and apply a generous layer of mulch.

Aftercare

• Water regularly during the first year, especially in dry weather. Potted trees will need more frequent watering.
• Check the tree after strong winds and firm it in if necessary. Stake young trees in exposed locations.
• Feed lightly from spring once the tree is established.

With proper planting and aftercare, a living Christmas tree can be enjoyed long after the holiday season has ended.