How Long Does It Take To Grow Your Own Christmas Tree?

If you purchased a live Christmas tree in the last few years, then you are all too aware that the holiday tradition of cutting down a live tree is more expensive than ever. There are artificial trees that are cheaper and reusable, but for many people, there is no substitute for the real thing. If you are one of the many who are sick of forking over a fortune every year at a tree farm, then you probably also want to know how long it would take to grow your own Christmas tree.

You need an average of eight to 12 years to grow a Christmas tree to the desired height of six to eight feet tall. Some trees can grow in as few as four years, while others can take 15 to 20 years to grow. The type of tree, location, tree maintenance, and desired height all impact how long it takes a Christmas tree to grow. 

Growing a Christmas tree takes time, but it can be a very rewarding experience. The key is knowing what type of tree you want and how long you are willing to wait. Not all trees grow at the same speed, and some trees can only be grown in certain environments. If you are giving this idea serious thought, then make sure you keep reading. This article has all the information you need to learn more about how to make this holiday fantasy a reality. 

How Many Years Does It Take To Grow A Christmas Tree?

There are dozens of different types of Christmas trees that are grown in nearly every climate around the world. With all this variety, it’s no surprise that there is not a simple answer to the question, “How long does it take to grow a Christmas tree?” Instead, there are averages, and approximate time frames based on what most people look for in a Christmas tree.

The average length of time it takes someone to grow a Christmas tree in a backyard is between eight and 12 years. Trees that grow for this long are usually mature, full, and between six to eight feet tall.

Some trees grow faster than average, like the Douglas fir, which can grow two feet per year. Others, including some spruce and cedar species, grow much slower and can take up to 20 years before they are ready to be cut down.

Factors Impacting How Long It Takes A Christmas Tree To Grow

1. Type Of Tree

The type of tree you plant is the biggest variable when trying to figure out how long it will take to grow a Christmas tree. There are dozens of different Christmas tree species, and they grow at various speeds. Some trees grow just a few inches in a year, while others can grow upwards of a foot or more in one year.

If you are in a rush to grow a tree, opt for a variety that shoots up quickly. If you have the luxury of patience, then you can opt for whatever tree species you’d like.

2. Desired Height

Another important variable when determining how long it takes to grow a Christmas tree is the desired height. Naturally, if you have limited space for a Christmas tree and only need a tree to be four feet tall, it will grow much faster than a seven-foot tree.

If you are in a rush, consider cutting your tree at five feet. This can shave off upwards of two or even three years of growing time. If, however, you want a 10-foot tree for a large room, then you might have to wait 20 years or longer to cut your tree down.

3. Location

Most Christmas trees are native to cooler climates. There are exceptions, including several cedar species that thrive in warm and dry climates. In general, it is best to choose a Christmas tree species that is native to an area with similar weather to where you live.

Planting a tree in its ideal environment tends to yield the best (and fastest-growing) results. If you choose a tree that is not normally grown in your growing zone, don’t be surprised if it struggles and grows much slower.

4. Care And Maintenance

Lastly, it should come as no surprise that trees that are well cared for tend to grow larger and faster. The more you properly water, maintain, and feed your tree, then the happier and healthier it will grow.

If you plant a tree and ignore it, letting nature take its course, then you are rolling the dice. It may do great, but it may also struggle. If you want a tree to grow faster, then take good care of it.

Five Types Of Christmas Tree Species To Grow In Your Yard

1. Scotch Pine

Perhaps the most quintessential of all Christmas trees is the Scotch pine. These trees have a wonderful Christmas tree fragrance and very sturdy branches. What sets them apart and makes them truly ideal as a Christmas tree is their longevity. 

Scotch pine trees retain their needles better than most trees. They also resist the urge to dry out. Even after Christmas, well after the tree is dry, it still holds on to most of its needles.

How Long It Takes To Grow: A Scotch pine grows to around seven feet, and is perfect for a Christmas tree, in six to eight years.

2. Balsam Fir

Balsam fir trees are known for their alluring and refreshing smell. This is certainly one great reason to grow these trees. Additionally, they have a full and desirable Christmas tree shape, but also enough space to string Christmas lights. 

How Long It Takes To Grow: A Balsam fir grows a bit slower than average. It takes an average of 15 years for these trees to become fully grown and ready to use as Christmas trees.

3. Norway Spruce

The Norway spruce is an ideal tree for anyone looking for a tall and sturdy tree. These trees can grow upwards of 60 feet if you let them, but even a six-foot tree will be strong. They can hold heavy ornaments and are the perfect choice for those who want a full vertical tree. They also have a lovely signature spruce smell.

How Long It Takes To Grow: A Norway spruce grows to Christmas tree height (between six and seven feet) in eight to 11 years.

4. Fraser Fir

The Fraser fir is an all-around great option if you're looking to grow your own Christmas tree. These trees grow fairly quickly, and are full, with sturdy branches. They also retain their needles very well, making them a great low-maintenance option. Furthermore, their sweet evergreen scent lingers for several weeks after being cut.

How Long It Takes To Grow: A Fraser fir tree grows on the faster side, yielding a six- to seven-foot tree in as quick as seven to upwards of 10 years.

5. Red Cedar

If you live in a warm climate where most evergreen trees struggle, consider planting a red cedar. The red cedar is perhaps the best Christmas tree to plant for in warmer climates.

It has a lovely aroma, and beautiful red bark, and is easy to grow outside of cold climates. Its branches aren’t as strong, and they aren’t as resilient as evergreens, but they are the best options for those who don’t live up north or at high elevations.

How Long It Takes To Grow: A red cedar tree can grow to Christmas tree size anywhere between 4 and 15 years, with an average of seven or eight years to grow a healthy seven-foot tree.

Summing Up How Long It Takes To Grow A Christmas Tree

Nothing says Christmas like a freshly-cut Christmas tree. The only problem is real trees are becoming more expensive by the year. If you are wondering how long it will take to grow a Christmas tree yourself, expect to wait an average of eight to 12 years. Remember that the type of tree, size of the tree, your location, and how well you care for it all impact how long it will take to grow your own beautiful Christmas tree.

Related Guides:

• Limited Space? How To Incorporate A Christmas Tree
• Tips for Hosting A Holiday Party In A Small Apartment
• How To Bring Pine Smell Into The Home For An Artificial Christmas Tree