Q Can I prune the potted Christmas tree that I put out in the garden?

Christmas trees can grow very big, so be careful where you plant them A CHRISTINE SAYS Sadly, trying to restrict this tree’s growth is going to be very difficult and will spoil its natural shape. Also, you won’t be able to keep it small for long, even with pruning. I really feel it would be best to either remove it completely if it’s too big for you, or move it in spring to a site where it will have plenty of room to grow – bearing in mind it could eventually reach a height of 50m and will get quite wide too.

If the roots have grown out through the base of the pot, try to dig them out of the ground, but you may have to sever the largest ones. Water the tree well before attempting this and ensure that when the tree is replanted you keep it well watered throughout the summer and in any dry spells during the next winter.