Who says you need a real tree at Christmas. For generations, folks have been cutting and decorating live trees to celebrate the holiday. Normally pine trees are used but not always. Originally, candles were placed on live trees for illumination. Other early electric lights made a fire risk.
Modern Christmas tree enthusiasts have plenty of options. Instead of trekking outdoors to cut a tree, you can get a fake tree. Some even come with lights already built into them. They fold up into a small box and last for years. Projected trees can be shown onto the wall or ceilings!
If you want to be different, consider other ways to creatively have a holiday tree. In Montana, folks often make antler trees from sheds and harvested deer and elk. Anglers form fishing rods into a teepee and decorate with garland and other creative ornaments. Campers make tented teepees that allow them to place Santas gifts inside.
One friend made his tree from pine log poles. He stapled garland around the logs and added lights. Once done, the tree looked amazing and did not cost him a dime.
Christmas is expensive enough with having to buy an expensive live tree. Using a balled, live tree, is a great way to have a holiday tree and then plant it into your yard. You need to pre-dig a hole that is ready to go. Once the ground gets frozen, digging is tough. Surround the tree ball with dirt and mulch. Make sure that the hole is deep enough.
Live trees smell nice, but you can add pine tree smell to the house using a pine scented candle. Be creative with your holiday tree. Maybe use fabrics, Bows, flowers, or materials that reflect your job, career, or sport. Skis, paddles and oars, or…. You decide. The money that you save can be used for more fun gifts, foods, and holiday cheer.
Happy Holidays!
Montana Grant
