What Kind of Christmas Trees Can I Plant in Alabama?

Christmas is almost here and it's time to choose a tree to decorate. For those who love nature, planting their own Christmas tree and watching it grow year after year can be a wonderful tradition. If you live in Alabama, there are several species of evergreen trees that can thrive in the state's climate and be used as a beautiful Christmas tree. Here are some options:

Eastern Red Cedar

The Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is a native tree to Alabama and is a popular choice for Christmas trees. It has a conical shape and blue-green foliage that can develop a purplish tint in the winter. The cedar has a pleasant fragrance and can retain its needles for a long time, making it a great choice for those who like to keep their tree up for several weeks.

Virginia Pine

The Virginia Pine (Pinus virginiana) is another native tree to Alabama that makes a great Christmas tree. It has a pyramidal shape and dark green needles that can grow up to 6 inches long. The Virginia Pine has a strong, piney scent and can also last a long time without losing its needles.

Leyland Cypress

The Leyland Cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii) is not native to Alabama, but it can still be a good choice for a Christmas tree. It has a slender and symmetrical shape and soft, feathery foliage that ranges in color from gray-green to blue-green. The Leyland Cypress has a faint fragrance and needs to be watered regularly to keep its needles from dropping.

Arizona Cypress

The Arizona Cypress (Cupressus arizonica) is another non-native tree that can be grown in Alabama and used as a Christmas tree. It has a more open and irregular shape than other species and the needles are gray-blue in color. The Arizona Cypress has a strong, piney scent and can also last for several weeks as long as it is watered properly.

Care and Maintenance

When planting a Christmas tree in Alabama, it's important to choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The tree should be watered regularly and fertilized annually to ensure healthy growth. Once the tree is ready to be cut, make sure to water it regularly and keep it away from direct heat sources like fireplaces and space heaters. With proper care, any of these species can make a beautiful and sustainable Christmas tree for years to come.

Conclusion

Choosing a Christmas tree is a personal preference, but if you live in Alabama, there are several species to choose from that can thrive in the state's climate. The Eastern Red Cedar, Virginia Pine, Leyland Cypress, and Arizona Cypress are all great options that can be enjoyed as a Christmas tree and as a permanent addition to your landscape. With a little care and maintenance, you can create lasting memories with your very own Christmas tree.