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Gardening Series: How To Grow Your Own Christmas Tree, Choosing Your Tree


By Lindsay Campbell

December 6, 2020

Photo Source: Unsplash,


Choosing your tree

The tree you decide to plant will depend on the hardiness zone and climate in your location. Using the USDA’s Hardiness Zone Map, you can find out which tree is best for you. If you purchase your seeds or seedlings from a nursery or greenhouse, the tag will usually tell you which zone the tree thrives in. Here is a general overview of your options. 


Fir trees: These trees are best for cooler climates and are generally well suited to fertile, well-drained soils on upland sites. Depending on the variety of fir you decide to grow, zones three to six, are best. It takes about seven to 10 years for this one to reach a notable Christmas tree size around six or seven feet. Firs are also notably fragrant and have a naturally symmetrical, cone-shaped form.Pine trees: These trees are hardy and can be grown in both warm and cooler climates. Known for having the ability to adapt to a variety of soils, they thrive in zones anywhere from 3-10, depending on the pine. Pines are quicker growing and can reach full size in around six years. 


Spruces: They grow well in areas with cooler climates and are a good fit for zones ranging from two to seven. Spruces are more site demanding and slower growing than most pines. They will be ready to be cut down in seven to 10 years. Their short, single-needle foliage is stiffer and their thick, stout branches can support heavy ornaments. 


Cypresses: Cypresses are hardy trees. They adapt to a variety of soils, but thrive in well-draining and moist environments. Depending on the tree, they can be grown in USDA zones five through 10. They are quick growing and can reach an average Christmas tree size in about four years. Their color ranges from yellow-green to blue-green and deep green and they have a scent that has been described as spicy and citrus. 


Cedars : These trees can be grown in hardiness zones ranging from two to nine, but are more commonly grown in warmer, southern climates where fir trees cannot grow. Despite being a coniferous tree, cedars have more fernlike limbs. Like cypresses, the average growing season is also about four years. The most well-known cedar is the Eastern Red cedar, which has a natural pyramidal crown, making it a low-maintenance choice for pruning.  


If you are curious about specific varieties of certain trees, Michigan State University has an in-depth guide.





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