Grow Your Own Christmas Tree

One of our most cherished Christmas traditions is getting and decorating a Christmas tree. Why not try growing your own?! Growing your own Christmas tree can be a fun and rewarding experience all while contributing to a sustainable environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sow and grow your own Christmas tree.

Edible Christmas Tree

Sowing your Seeds

• Prepare the Seeds: Seeds may require stratification (a period of cold treatment) to germinate. Place the seeds in a moist medium (like sand or peat) and refrigerate them for 30 to 60 days.
• Select the Right Time: Sow your seeds in early spring after the last frost. This timing allows them to germinate when conditions are optimal.
• Planting: Use a seed-starting mix and plant the seeds about 4 cm deep in small pots or a seed tray. Water them gently and place them in a sunny location.
• Germination: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.

Caring for your Seedlings

Once your seeds have germinated, it’s time to nurture your seedlings:

• Transplanting: When seedlings reach about 16 cm tall, transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden, ensuring they have enough space to grow. If planting outdoors, choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Watering: Young trees need regular watering, especially in the first few years. Aim for deep watering sessions rather than frequent shallow ones to encourage strong root development.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Pruning: As your tree grows, occasional pruning will help maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. This is best done in late winter or early spring.

Patience and Growth

Growing a Christmas tree is a long-term commitment. It can take 5 to 10 years to reach the desired height for cutting. During this time, enjoy watching your tree grow and take part in the nurturing process. Regular care will lead to a healthier, fuller tree.

Harvesting your Christmas Tree

When your tree has reached the desired height (usually between 6 to 8 feet for a Christmas tree), it’s time to harvest:

• Timing: Late fall, just before Christmas, is the ideal time to cut your tree.
• Cutting: Use a sharp saw to make a clean cut about 24 cm above the ground. This encourages healthy regrowth if you plan to leave the stump.
• Caring Post-Harvest: Immediately place the tree in water to keep it fresh until you’re ready to decorate.

Eating your Christmas Tree

Did you know that you can also eat the pine needles from your Christmas tree! Pine needles are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a great health booster. You can use them to make a refreshing pine needle tea, which has a light, citrusy flavour and can help support your immune system. You can also use them to infuse oils or vinegars for a distinct taste. For those who love baking, finely ground pine needles can be mixed into bread or cookie dough for an earthy flavour.

Sowing and growing your own Christmas tree is a fun journey that adds a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. With a little patience and care, you’ll not only create a beautiful centrepiece for your home but also get to use the pine needles for a festive spin on your dishes. Plus, you’ll be contributing to the environment by planting a tree that helps clean the air and provide habitat for wildlife. Happy growing!