How to Plant a Christmas Tree

By Gene and Katie Hamilton

Step 1 : Plan its location and dig the hole

When choosing a spot to plant the tree, remember that it will grow. Choose an area of the yard where the tree has plenty of room to spread out. Be careful not to plant it below utility or phone lines or overhead cables.

Plant a living Christmas tree in your yard is much like planting any tree, however, if the weather is cold, you should take precautions so the ground doesn't freeze and the tree isn't damaged. After buying the tree, measure the diameter of its root ball and dig a large enough hole so the tree sits in it comfortably. Fill the hole will leaves or any loose material and cover it with a tarp so heavy snow or rain doesn't accumulate in it and freeze. Keep the soil you removed nearby to fill in around the tree when it is planted.
Step 2 : Plant and water the tree

When ready to plant the tree, remove the leaves from the hole. Use a wheelbarrow to carefully move the tree to its location and gently lower it into the hole. Set the tree up so it is erect and fill in the hole with the soil you removed. Add compost or organic matter so the soil drains well. Water the hole and firm the soil around the root ball to eliminate air pockets. Then water it again and apply a layer of mulch to the ground around the base of the tree.