As the holiday season approaches, people who are cramped for space often feel left out when it comes to Christmas tree fun. Not to mention, more people are searching for sustainable alternatives to traditional Christmas trees.
Among one of the most charming options, and my favorite, is a small rosemary topiary.
These perfectly coiffed and fragrant plants begin showing up in grocery stores and garden centers each year right after Thanksgiving.
Not only does this delightful little plant add the right amount of evergreen to your holiday decor, but its practicality and versatility extend well beyond the festive season. And I’m sure we can all agree that mini lights and ornaments are magical. If you’re looking for a smaller take on the whole Christmas tree tradition, keep reading.
The Allure of Mini Rosemary Christmas Trees
Aesthetically Pleasing
One of the most appealing aspects of rosemary trees is their aesthetic charm. With their evergreen leaves and sculpted shapes, they bring a touch of nature indoors during the winter months. They’ve been grown and trimmed to look just like the larger version, and they fit well with just about any home décor style, from rustic to modern.
Aromatic Experience
Rosemary is well-known for its scent. Its fresh, herbal aroma is invigorating and can evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia during the holiday season. Unlike artificial trees that can have an unpleasant odor, rosemary topiaries fill your home with an energetic, piney fragrance that complements the festive atmosphere. I always have one in my kitchen for the holidays (we have a big tree, too), and I can’t help but brush my fingers over it each time I walk by.
Sustainability
With growing concerns about sustainability, many people are opting for more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional trees, especially in lieu of fake trees. Rosemary trees are a perfect sustainable choice as they can be kept indoors for years or planted outside to thrive in your garden. Unlike cut trees, which contribute to waste after the holiday season, your little rosemary tree will continue to grow. Plus, you get to enjoy fresh rosemary for cooking.
Symbolism and Meaning
Rosemary has been associated with various symbolic meanings throughout history, often representing love, remembrance, and fidelity. A rosemary topiary can be an added layer of significance to the way you choose to celebrate Christmas.
Mini Everything
Let’s not overlook the appeal of having a tiny, fairy-sized Christmas tree in our homes, complete with tiny lights and miniature ornaments.
What to Look for When Buying a Rosemary Topiary
If you want your plant to last through the Christmas season and beyond, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting one:
- Soil – Stick your finger down in the soil of the plant. The potting mix should be slightly moist, but not waterlogged. Rosemary is a Mediterranean plant that does best with thorough but infrequent watering. A plant that’s been watered too much may die.
- Healthy Foliage – Look for a plant with vibrant silver-green leaves that are free from brown tips or discoloration. The leaves should be firm and aromatic, indicating freshness. Avoid topiaries with yellowing or wilting leaves, as these may be signs of water damage to the roots.
- Tight, Compact Shape – Select a topiary with a well-defined, compact shape that resembles a miniature tree. It should be thick with little to no bare spots, just like selecting a traditional Christmas tree. A balanced-looking plant usually means it has been pruned and cared for correctly. Avoid plants that appear leggy or unkempt, as these may struggle to thrive indoors.
- Root Health – If possible, inspect the root system. You can usually gently lift the plant out of the pot by grasping it by the base. You should see white roots, not brown. It should smell pleasantly earthy. The plant will likely be a little root-bound. That’s okay; you can always repot it after the holidays.
- Scent Intensity – Gently pinch a few leaves or brush your hand over the plant. A strong, aromatic scent indicates freshness and vitality. If you can’t really smell anything or the rosemary fragrance is weak, skip that plant. It’s likely been sitting on the shelf for too long.
How to Keep Your Rosemary Tree Happy Through the Holidays
Lighting
Rosemary thrives in bright, indirect light. Place your topiary near a south-facing window where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. If natural light is limited, consider supplementing with a grow light to ensure the plant gets enough energy to thrive.
Watering
Rosemary prefers slightly dry conditions, so be careful not to overwater. Water the topiary when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It’s better to underwater than overwater, as rosemary is susceptible to root rot. If you repot it, make sure that your pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Humidity
Indoor environments, especially during winter, can become quite dry. To maintain the health of your rosemary, increase humidity around the plant by misting it occasionally or placing a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles nearby. This will help mimic its natural growing conditions.
Temperature
Rosemary thrives in cooler temperatures, between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Avoid placing it near heat sources, such as radiators or fireplaces, as extreme temperatures can stress the plant. For this reason, if you’re going to decorate it, LED lights are best.
Transitioning Your Rosemary Topiary Outdoors in Spring
Congratulations! You’ve kept your rosemary tree alive and kicking until spring, and now you want to plant it outside. Here’s how to prepare it for its home in the garden:
Timing – Wait until the danger of frost has passed in spring before transplanting your rosemary topiary outside. This typically occurs in late April to early May, depending on your hardiness zone.
Location – Choose a sunny spot (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) in your garden with well-draining soil. Rosemary prefers slightly alkaline soil, so if your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Transplanting – Gently remove the topiary from its pot and loosen the roots if they are tightly bound. Dig a hole in the garden that is slightly larger around than the root ball but not deeper. Place the plant in the hole at the same depth it was in the pot and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.
Spring Watering – While your plant is getting acclimated to living outside, you’ll want to water it more frequently to help it establish itself. Once it’s rooted, rosemary is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care. You can prune it as needed to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.
Other Christmas Tree Alternatives
If rosemary isn’t quite you’re thing, here are several other small potted plants that make charming Christmas tree alternatives:
Norfolk Island Pine: With its soft, feathery needles and symmetrical shape, this miniature evergreen resembles a traditional Christmas tree. It thrives indoors (even when your cats like to dig in the dirt). I even decorate mine with tiny lights and baubles every Christmas.
Miniature Cypress: This compact conifer features dense foliage and a classic Christmas tree shape. It’s a lovely option if you want a traditional look in a smaller size, perfect for tabletops or windowsills.
Dwarf Alberta Spruce: Known for its slow growth and symmetrical form, the dwarf Alberta spruce makes the perfect miniature Christmas tree. These are always so cute. I wish I could keep mine alive beyond the holidays. I somehow always manage to kill it.
Lavender Topiary: You’ll likely find lavender topiaries being sold alongside the rosemary topiaries. They’re both suitable for decorating and can be transplanted outside in the spring.
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