A grow-your-own Christmas tree, our little Norway spruce comes as a healthy young sapling (young tree) between twenty and fifty centimetres long with a healthy root system. To keep its roots moist it will come with its lower half tucked into a hessian bag. All you need to do is remove it from the bag and plant your tree up into a small pot of ericaceous (acidic) compost. Make sure the pot you choose has a hole in the bottom so water can drain through – your young tree won’t enjoy having a soggy bottom. Place your tree on a table or shelf where it can enjoy some natural light and water it when the top two inches of soil feel dry – try the finger-dip test if you’re unsure.
With time and care your little Norway spruce tree will grow into a sturdy Christmas tree with a bushy bottom and tapering tip – perfect for that angel on top. After Christmas, pop your potted tree outside to grow on so that you can bring it in again next year. Remember to give it a regular drink and feed it over summer to give it a nutrient boost. If it has a real growth spurt, you may need to pot it up into a larger pot to give its roots more room.
How satisfying to be able to say you’ve grown your own Christmas tree – that’s one to show off to your friends. Little Norman is also a great gift if you know someone green-fingered.
Did you know?
A Norway spruce can live up to 200 years, so it’ll see you through this Christmas and beyond.
