Porch Christmas Trees

Porch Christmas trees bring a little holiday cheer right to your doorstep, whether you’re dressing up a farmhouse entry or making the most of a small covered porch. Start by checking the space beside your front door, leaving plenty of room for the door to swing open and for folks to carry in groceries, gifts and firewood. A pair of front porch Christmas trees can frame a wide entrance, while a single tree tucked beside a bench can give a narrow entry a festive touch without crowding the walkway. Think about height as well as width: Your tree should fit comfortably beneath the porch roof and stay clear of overhead fixtures. For a pulled-together Christmas porch display, carry a few of the same colors from your front door wreath to your tree ornaments or ribbon. Simple touches can make the entrance feel welcoming without taking attention away from the trees. Choosing outdoor Christmas trees for a porch takes a little planning for winter weather, even if the entry has a roof overhead. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that an artificial tree, light string and any electrical accessories are rated for the location where you plan to place them; a covered porch can still get windblown rain or snow. Set each tree on a level surface and secure it according to its instructions, especially if your front steps catch a steady breeze. For lighted porch Christmas trees, use an outdoor-rated extension cord where needed, plug into a GFCI-protected outlet and keep cords out of walking paths. If you prefer a living potted Christmas tree, choose one suited to your local climate, make sure its container drains freely and check soil moisture throughout the season. Finish your front porch holiday display with outdoor-suitable accents that are firmly attached, then keep steps and walkways clear so family and neighbors have an easy path to your door.