How to Replant a Christmas Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide for Success

by Keira May 17, 2024

written by Keira May 17, 2024

How to Replant a Christmas Tree: A Comprehensive Guide

Can You Replant a Christmas Tree?

For most people, no, you cannot replant a Christmas tree. This is because most people use cut trees, which are impossible to replant. To be able to replant your Christmas tree, you must have a balled and burlapped tree, and it must remain healthy and vigorous during the time it is indoors.

How to Replant a Christmas Tree Outside

If you have a balled and burlapped Christmas tree, you can replant it outside after the holiday season is over. Here are the steps to follow:

Prepare both the tree and the hole for the tree before Christmas. Digging the hole before Christmas guarantees you can dig into the ground and also helps you get the tree into the soil as soon as possible once you’re ready to plant. Make the hole twice as wide as the rootball and equally as deep.
Keep the tree healthy during the time it is indoors. Give it some sunlight, keep the ball moist, and don’t expose it to warm or cool drafts.
Several days after Christmas (after the tree has spent a few days in the garage getting reacclimmated to the cold), carry the balled and burlapped tree outside and set it gently in the hole.
Untie the burlap ball (sometimes called the bag) and cut any wires keeping the root ball intact.
Lift the tree, loosen the roots, and remove the bag and any binding wires.
Pour at least 5 gallons of cool water into the hole and fill the hole with soil up to the root flare.
Compress the soil around the tree’s base and mulch around the tree to the depth of 2 to 3 inches out to the edge of the branches.
Water the soil at the tree’s base.

Caring for a Christmas Tree With a Rootball

If you plan to use a tree with a root ball in your home for Christmas, regardless of whether or not you plan to plant it after the holiday, you will need to care for it in a specific way that is much different than taking care of a regular-cut Christmas tree.

Here are some tips to keep your balled and burlapped Christmas tree vigorous and healthy over the holiday season and ready to plant, if you choose:

Soak the ball before bringing it indoors.
Acclimate your tree to the indoors for two or three days to prepare it for the change. Placing it in a cold garage or on a porch will work fine.
In its indoor location, place your tree in an area that receives some sunlight.
Do not place the tree near a heater, and avoid placing the tree in an area with a draft.
Keep the ball constantly moist but not soaking wet once it is indoors.
Only keep the tree indoors for up to 10 to 14 days.
Acclimate your tree to the chillier temperatures for two or three days before you take it outdoors to be planted—a garage or porch works well.

FAQs

Can you replant a Christmas tree that was cut down?

No, you cannot replant a Christmas tree that was cut down. If you are determined to save some of your Christmas tree, you can cut a branch and try to propagate it.

Is it possible to dig up and replant a Christmas tree?

No, it’s not possible to dig up and replant a Christmas tree. Though you can technically try to do it, it’s not realistic and it is unlikely the tree will do well.

Do all rooted tree come balled and burlapped?

No, all rooted trees do not come balled and burlapped. Depending on the size of the tree you want, you may be able to find one in a pot. Larger trees will not be potted; they will be balled and burlapped.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.