A live, potted tree is probably the most eco-friendly Christmas tree option, but you can’t treat it like a cut tree.

If you’re going to get a potted Christmas tree this year, with thoughts of planting it in the spring there’s a few things you have to do differently.

According to the Clemson Extension Home and Garden Center:

• Living trees can stay in the house for only a brief period, no more than 7 to 10 days. Longer periods in a home can lead to death of the tree.
• Make sure that the tree will fit into your landscape. Most trees used as Christmas trees will eventually reach heights of 40 to 60 feet.
• Select a species that is well-suited to growing in your area. The tree will be inside for a very short time compared to the time that you will have it in your landscape.
• Living trees are very heavy. They will be even heavier, since it is necessary to keep the roots constantly moist. Be sure that you can manage to move this much weight around without damaging either the tree or yourself. Container-grown trees are usually lighter and easier to handle.

When we purchased a live tree, the expert at our garden center told us to keep the tree in our unheated garage until the ground thawed.  If you live in a warmer climate, you may be able to plant your tree right away.  Make sure to ask lots of questions when you make the purchase.

Check out the Clemson website for a chart of different types of trees to see which one will work best for your home.