Does a Potted Norfolk Island Pine Make a Good Christmas Tree?
Updated: Dec. 13, 2019Does a Potted Norfolk Island Pine Make a Good Christmas Tree?
Imagine buying a Christmas tree once, then using it every December, year after year! Been there, done that? Probably not with a living tree. This one’s not plastic or aluminum—it’s an honest-to-goodness evergreen!
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What is a Norfolk island pine?
Norfolk island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is a subtropical tree that grows tall and proud in climates like South Florida and Hawaii, where it can reach up to 200 feet in height. Elsewhere it makes a fine houseplant or patio plant, slowly growing to about 6 feet.
This attractive evergreen tree has gracefully curved branches that help it stand apart from traditional indoor plants. Because of its beauty, Norfolk island pine is marketed year round but especially at Christmas. In fact, a number of national retailers now sell the potted evergreens already decorated for the holidays! Unlike other evergreens, Norfolk island pine is comparatively easy to grow indoors, which means you can keep it alive for years. Just think, your family Christmas tree could live to serve another generation, starting a nice tradition.
Going the traditional route with a cut tree? Here are some tips.
How to keep a Norfolk island pine healthy?
Keeping a Norfolk island pine healthy depends on providing bright light and keeping it away from drafts (including heating vents). Water whenever the top inch of soil is dry. Soil that’s continually wet can cause root rot and browning of branches—at which point some homeowners instinctively reach for the watering can when the tree already has too much moisture.
Planting a Norfolk island pine outdoors
From Christmas tree to houseplant to patio tree? Yup! Turns out Norfolk island pine likes to spend the summer months outdoors, where it will often take on a greener hue. The key is to wait until the danger of frost has passed, then move it to a partly shaded spot for the summer. Don’t put it in direct sun because the needles will get sunburned.
Why use a Norfolk island pine as a Christmas tree?
Why use a Norfolk island pine as a Christmas tree? It’s natural, it’s unique and, believe it or not, it’s an air purifier. NASA research confirms houseplants like Norfolk island pine can help remove harmful vapors that off-gas from common household items, furnishings and cleaning chemicals. No artificial tree can do that!
Here are 60 incredible DIY Christmas decorating ideas.
KooPower Waterproof Lights
KooPower's waterproof lights are some of the highest rated on Amazon, with 4.3 stars out of five. The come with eight light effects on a 36-foot string. There's a remote included and batteries that allow you to control the lights from 10 feet away. There are 100 LED lights on the string and you can pick some up for $12.99. Find out the pros and cons of switching to LED lights, you might be surprised by some of them.
Twinkle Star LED Window Curtain String Lights
These Twinkle Star LED Window Curtain String Lights are the No. 1 best seller on Amazon and retail for $15.99. The great thing about these lights is they can be used in several settings.. These, too, are waterproof and have eight different modes. There are 300 total lights in a package. Just don't go crazy with them like some of the most outrageous light displays of all time.
PMS LED Warm White Lights
Amazon customers give these Christmas tree lights from PMS 4.3 stars and for good reason. For $44.99, you get 1,000 LED lights with eight modes and a memory function. You'll cover plenty of ground with 338 feet of lights, just be sure you know how to best store Christmas lights.
Qedertek Solar String Lights
For outdoor lighting, these Qedertek Solar String Lights are among the most popular on Amazon. You can pick up pack of them for $19.99 and you'll get 72 feet of 200 LED lights. They're waterproof lights and the solar power they use will ease the burden of your electricity bill. Avoid an eye-popping electric bill with these tips.
Recesky Christmas String Lights with Timer
These Christmas lights from Recesky rank among the best-selling and top-rated LED lights on Amazon. You'll get 50 LED lights on 19 feet for these battery operated lights, which should also be great for your utility bill. The waterproof lights need three AA batteries, which aren't included. But they come with a timer and eight different light modes. Check out 15 super easy ways to save money during the holidays.
TaoTronics Dimmable Waterproof LED String Lights
TaoTronics' LED lights have been a top seller on Amazon for a long time with more than 5 million sold. That might be in part because they come with a year warranty. They don't have as many modes as some of the other Christmas lights but three is plenty enough for most people. Pick out the best Christmas tree you ever had after reading these tips.
Kringle Traditions Icicle Lights
Who doesn't love icicle lights? Check Kringle Traditions icicle lights on Amazon for $14.99 to add to your gutters. You'll get 150 lights and nine feet of string. Here's the secret to fixing those old Christmas lights.
Fullbell Fairy Twinkle LED Lights
Fullbell is one of the best-selling brands on Amazon for Christmas lights and this 66-foot string of 200 LED lights is a pretty good deal at $13.99. The multiple color string comes with a controller and are waterproof. Get some ideas for holiday decor for every room with these out-of-the-ordinary tips.
Sterno Battery Powered Fairy Siring Lights
These Sterno Home lights are a versatile addition to your holiday displays. They're battery operated so they can go anywhere and they're remote-controlled, too. You get 50 LED lights and a combined length of 65 feet with a four-pack. Customers love them, giving it 4.4 stars on Amazon. Consult our ultimate guide to Christmas lighting before you get started.
