Caring for a Mini Christmas Tree?

Question:

My brother gave me a mini Christmas tree (I have never successfully raised a plant) and I wondered if anyone could give me tips about it, such as watering and repotting since it's in a milk jug bottom right now.

Hardiness Zone: 6a

Thanks,
Christi from Paducah, KY

Answer:

Christi,

The care of your mini Christmas tree depends on what type of tree it is. Most traditional evergreens grown and sold as potted Christmas trees have about a 50/50 chance of surviving, and that is if they are transplanted outdoors after only 7-10 days spent indoors. The exception to this is the Norfolk Pine, which is often kept indoors as a houseplant after the holidays. For more information on caring for a Norfolk, take a look at this post www.thriftyfun.com/tf47893507.tip.html

If your mini Christmas tree is a traditional evergreen, plan on planting it outside as soon as temperatures warm up. In the meantime, try to keep the roots moist (not wet) to prevent them from drying out. Keep your tree in a bright, cool room out of the way of drafts. Before moving outside permanently, let it adjust to conditions outdoors by setting it outside for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the amount of time it spends outside. Make sure you plant it in well-drained soil. Evergreens don't generally like wet feet.