A living Christmas Tree tradition
There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than with a decorated Christmas tree, but how about one that you can plant after the season is over? For generations, families have selected the perfect Christmas tree, one that brings beauty to the holidays and continues its story long after the season ends. Ball and burlap (B&B) Christmas trees are a time-honored tradition that fits perfectly with a love of land, family, and the outdoors here in Kentucky.
Unlike cut trees, B&B trees are grown in the field and carefully dug with their root ball intact, wrapped in natural burlap to protect the roots. During the holidays, they can be enjoyed indoors for a short time, then planted outdoors to grow for decades to come. Many families mark milestones like new homes, weddings, or a baby’s first Christmas by planting a living tree that becomes part of their landscape and legacy.
Living Christmas trees also offer environmental benefits. They continue to provide wildlife habitat, improve air quality, and help prevent soil erosion once planted. With proper care and planting, our Christmas trees will thrive in your landscape.
Choosing a ball and burlap Christmas tree is about more than decorating for the holidays, it’s starting a tradition to continue through the ages. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate the season while investing in something that will grow alongside your family for years to come.
Here are some tips on caring for your Ball & Burlap Christmas Tree
Before bringing it inside
Keep your tree outdoors in a protected area until you’re ready to decorate.
Water the root ball thoroughly before moving it indoors.
Indoors
Limit indoor time to 7–10 days to avoid stressing the tree.
Place the tree in a cool room, away from fireplaces, vents, and direct heat.
Check the root ball daily and keep it evenly moist, make sure to place a tray underneath to keep your floor dry.
Transitioning back outdoors
Move the tree to an unheated garage or covered porch for a few days to help it re-acclimate.
Water as needed and protect the root ball from extreme cold.
Planting after the holidays
Plant as soon as the ground is workable. If the ground is frozen, keep the tree outdoors in a sheltered spot and water during dry spells. BONUS, dig a hole in the spot you want to plant the tree before the weather gets too bad.
Dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Remove twine and fold back burlap from the top of the root ball before backfilling.
Water deeply after planting and mulch lightly, keeping mulch away from the trunk.
