Christmas Gardening Laidback Gardener Tip of the Day

A Short History of the Christmas Tree

20151213A.jpgThe Christmas tree is an old German tradition actually dating back well before the time of Christ. According to the beliefs of the northern European pagan tribes, winter, with its short days and its trees that lose their leaves, represented the death of nature and the end of the world. Fortunately, by using the right rituals and sacrifices, it was possible to turn the tide and bring the world back to life. So they celebrated Yule, or the Feast of renewal, when the days began to lengthen, that is to say around the end of our month of December.

The fir tree was at the center of their celebrations. Since it retains its needles even in a time of “death”, it represented immortality. So they decorated it with ribbons of birch bark, bits of meat and candles for the feast of Yule. Over time, the festival of Yule and that of the more recently introduced Christmas melded into one and the decorated Christmas tree thus became part of the Christian Christmas tradition, particularly in Germany and Alsace.

It is believed that German mercenaries first brought the tradition of the Christmas tree to North America. Then, under the influence of the United States, it spread around the world! Indeed, Christmas is now celebrated even in China where brilliantly lit artificial fir trees decorate streets, parks and storefronts. However the celebration there has no religious overtone and is instead seen as a kind of winter carnival.

Garden writer and blogger, author of 65 gardening books, lecturer and communicator, the Laidback Gardener, Larry Hodgson, passed away in October 2022. Known for his great generosity, his thoroughness and his sense of humor, he reached several generations of amateur and professional gardeners over his 40-year career. Thanks to his son, Mathieu Hodgson, and a team of contributors, laidbackgardener.blog will continue its mission of demystifying gardening and making it more accessible to all.

2 comments on “A Short History of the Christmas Tree

  1. timothyferriss

    the Christmas tree has a complex history that includes pagan traditions, Christian adaptations, and its eventual spread across the world 2048 as a symbol of the holiday season, sometimes with or without religious significance depending on the cultural context.

  2. chachaflint

    Designing a captivating Christmas tree can be a joyful experience. To enhance your tree’s aesthetics, you might want to explore free psychic text chat website. These readings can offer inspiration and guidance in creating a tree that resonates with your energy and intentions for the holiday season. Additionally, choose a theme or color palette that suits your style, layer decorations from inside to out, and consider adding personal touches like handmade ornaments or sentimental items. Remember, the perfect tree is the one that brings you joy and reflects your holiday spirit.

Leave a Reply

Sign up for the Laidback Gardener blog and receive articles in your inbox every morning!