How to use houseplants as alternative Christmas trees
Plants can be a great alternative to replace the classic Christmas tree in your living room. Perhaps you don't want to environmental or financial burden of buying a tree just to dispose of it a few weeks later, you already own a lot of houseplants or you're simply up for trying something new. Large houseplants are a simple and fast way to increase the amount of greenery in your home in a sustainable way, as you'll be able to enjoy them year-round as opposed to only in December.
The plants you should choose as a Christmas tree alternative (if you don't already have any suitable options) depends on the amount of space you have and your personal preferences. Get inspired by our five alternatives to a Christmas tree below and choose your favourite!
1. Norfolk Island pine
If you can't do without the scent of pine in December, choose a Norfolk Island pine. This plant is a lovely alternative to the standard fir trees. Norfolk Island pines are characterised by having several tiers of branches on the trunk with small green needles that don't fall off. A new layer of branches is added every year when the plant is healthy and growing well. All you need is a few strings of lights to immediately create an evergeeen Christmas atmosphere.
Caretaking tips: chamber pines prefer a bright spot with no direct sunlight and temperatures that aren't too warm. In a less bright spot, chamber pines will do fine but the plant will grow more slowly. Always keep the potting soil slightly moist, but not too wet.
2. Ficus Lyrata
This robust plant makes a green statement no matter how much space you have. Ficus Lyrata's large, glossy green leaves will bring festive cheer as well as being an excellent canvas for decorations. It comes in small and large varieties so can fit whichever room you wish.
Caretaking tips: Give Ficus Lyrata a bright spot that's not in direct sunlight and water the plant regularly so that the potting soil remains slightly moist. As the leaves are large, occasional dusting is a must to keep enjoying their beautiful, shiny qualities.
3. Pachira
Graceful Pachira has strikingly-shaped five-fingered leaves that grow almost horizontally. This indoor can also be recognised by its intertwined trunks, which are perfecting for winding fairy lights around. Besides its beautiful appearance, this tree has a rich symbolism of luck and fortune which also makes it a great choice to give as a green Christmas gift.
Caretaking tips: Pachira prefers a spot in the semi-shade and needs relatively little water, as it stores water in its stem. Keep the potting soil slightly moist in summer. In winter, the root ball may be allowed dry out slightly between waterings. Regular misting with a plant spray will make Pachira extra happy! Turn the plant occasionally, as the tree grows towards the light.
4. Philodendron pedatum
Another plant with the wow factor is Philodendron Pedatum. This eye-catcher has beautiful, deeply incised leaves that love to grow up against a support. You can use its growth as a canvas for Christmas decorations, lights and cards.
Caretaking tips: Philodendron Pedatum prefers a spot with plenty of sunlight that isn't too direct. Keep the plant's potting soil moist, watering it little and often rather than a lot at once. If the leaves turn brown, the plant isn't getting enough water. If the leaves turn yellow, the plant is being overwatered.
5. A Christmas tree with dried flowers
If you simply can't (or won't, you stubborn thing) do Christmas without a traditional tree, why not try decorating it with dried flowers instead of tinsel? By using dried flowers such as baby's breath you'll bring an organic, natural feel to this year's celebrations. There's no need to provide the dried flowers with water and they stay looking attractive for a long time.
More Christmas inspiration
Looking for more inspiration about celebrating Christmas with plants? Discover how to decorate your Christmas table beautifully with greenery, or roll up your sleeves and get started with fun and simple Christmas DIYs, such as a Christmas wreath with mistletoe. Wrap gifts with these gorgeous botanical wrapping textiles. Merry Christmas!
