There’s something earthy and sexy about the idea of a live Christmas tree — a holiday focal point still connected to its roots. Seeing a root ball base wrapped in burlap, surrounded by stockings, presents and toys, boughs decorated with stringed cranberries, twig-fashioned ornaments and fresh-baked gingerbread, it’s tough not to feel nostalgic. Not to feel this tree has a greater purpose. Words like rustic and romantic spring to mind.

Balled and burlapped evergreens have seen a rise in popularity - an option with definite green appeal. B&b trees are meant to be put back into the natural environment after the holidays, the intention being they will continue to grow and contribute to the cycle of life. No tree is chopped down here.

Rather than being chipped into mulch or discarded at the curb, b&b trees are living reminders of holidays past. Of a time when the family trekked out to the yard and dug a home for the new member of the garden. Of togetherness, possibility and renewal.

Sounds great, in theory, doesn’t it?

But have you ever seen the size of the root ball attached to a six-foot tree? Are you ready to cart around a 200-lb evergreen? And what are you going to do with the thing until you can plant it in mid-May?

Tim Cantelon, owner of Sandhill Nursery in Huntsville says they have offered this option in the past. Kyra Watters, also of Sandhill, says they are asked about the b&b option five or 10 times a season.

If you’re thinking of going au naturel, there are definitely some things to consider.

Is your Christmas tree a major focal point of your holiday decorating? If the tree is something you like to have around for weeks of enjoyment, a plantable tree may not be for you.

When you purchase a tree over 6-feet in height it will usually be b&b. Anything under this size is usually shipped in a bucket ranging from 5-15 gallons or so.

Regardless of the root holder, plantable Christmas trees shouldn’t be in the house for long. If the roots begin to thaw, the tree can break dormancy. When this happens, the tree starts to grow again, thinking spring has returned. To put it back outside in this condition can shock it, causing it to die.

“Trees only know what season it is when they’re in the ground; when their roots can feel out the soil,” says Watters. “It’s best to have potted or b&b trees inside for three to four days max, and then it has to be put back outside. Once (people) find out they can’t keep that tree inside for weeks on end, many change their minds.”

Research what type of evergreen will survive in your zone, too. And if it will flourish in your yard, make sure you know the tree’s possible height and width. You don’t want to plant it next to your home if it will end up growing into your roof.

If you thought trying to cart a fresh-hewn, snow-covered tree to the car was difficult, think of this: a six-foot tree with root ball can weigh as much as 250 lbs. A four-foot tree should have a root ball roughly 18-inches wide, but can be larger to make sure the tree transplants well.

“We have ornamental junipers people in a condo setting might like,” says Watters. “But if someone wanted a seven-foot Fraser with roots, it would weigh around 600 lbs.”

Potted trees can be just as heavy.

“The largest you could get that would be manageable would be a four-foot tree,” explains Watters. “Four feet would be tree and then an additional two feet of it would be roots. This size would cost about $120.”

If you’re determined to go au naturel this year, something Watters says is possible in Muskoka, you’ll need to plan ahead.

While in warmer climes one can take the tree outside days after Christmas and dig down into fresh, unfrozen earth, that’s definitely not the case in areas of the north. This means you’ll have to dig a large enough hole while the ground is still thawed. Move the loose dirt into your garage or a warm shed so that you can use it when you replant in late December. Add mulch to the bottom of the hole and cover the area with either boards or a tarp. Marking the space with a flag or stake is also a good idea — imagine trying to find the hole under six feet of snow on Boxing Day?

While the tree is in your home, water is of utmost concern. A large tree can consume up to a gallon of water a day. The roots need to be kept damp, but avoid flooding them. Dropping 30 ice cubes onto the root ball surface is a good tip, or wrap the top of the root ball in wet towels. These options allow the water to gradually saturate the soil.

When it comes to decorating, opt for lighting that doesn’t emit heat such as LED lights. This lessens the chance of the tree’s needles/leaves burning. It’s also a good idea to go for decorations that are lightweight; the less stress on the tree the better.

After the holidays don’t rush the tree out into a freezing cold space. You’ll need to acclimatize it, so move it gradually. The tree will be vulnerable post-Christmas so search for a place that is protected from the wind and freezing temperatures; a cool area that gets direct sunlight is ideal. Once it has gotten  use to the temps you can move it out to its pre-dug hole and plant it. You may need to stake the tree or wrap it with burlap to help it weather the first winter.

If you didn’t dig a hole before the ground froze, its still strongly suggested that you get your live tree into the ground as soon as possible however possible.

“You can always move it again in the spring, but getting it into the soil is important for its survival,” Watters explains.

Outdoor plants aren’t meant to spend a winter in a pot in your garage, either. Without the protection of the earth around them, the roots will be in danger of freezing and the tree likely won’t survive.

Farm-grown Ontario Christmas trees are a renewable, sustainable agricultural crop with many eco-benefits. Buying a pre-cut tree, or heading out to a tree farm to cut one down yourself, means less harm to naturally occurring forest resources. Most farm-grown Christmas trees grow for seven to 15 years, aiding in erosion control, wildlife habitat, oxygen production, and carbon dioxide and other pollutant removal. Stop in to the Christmas Tree Farmers of Ontario website at www.christmastrees.on.ca to find out more about the environmental benefits of this centuries-old holiday option.

Still trying to figure out how to have a live tree as part of your holiday decorations, minus the stress?

“Plant an evergreen in the spring and then decorate it outside for Christmas,” suggests Watters. “This way you can enjoy the decorations for much longer without worrying about the tree suffering.” BTC