by Paul Myers

Choose-and-cut operations are usually smaller plantations that manage and produce trees for direct sale to consumers. These operations invite customers out to their fields and will either cut the trees for the purchaser or allow the customer to cut his/her own trees. Many choose-and-cut operations enhance the experience of getting a Christmas tree by providing a variety of recreational activities for customers. Choose-and-cut farms are found in every state and are often concentrated near large population centers. These operations vary considerably with regard to the species and quality of trees produced, and the services offered.

Christmas tree production is a long-term process. The average 7 to 8 foot tree generally requires 8 years of growth after planting. Some species require even longer production times. Likewise, larger-sized trees which are becoming increasingly popular, require more years to produce.

A major challenge for Christmas tree producers is to determine which tree species will be popular with consumers several years in the future. Although several species are utilized as Christmas trees, the majority of trees sold at retail markets today are Douglas-fir, Fraser fir, noble fir and Scotch pine. Species such as white spruce, Austrian pine and red pine are no longer as popular as they were in the past. Producers who are not sensitive to shifts in consumer preference will have difficulty marketing even high-quality trees of less preferred species.

Each component of Christmas tree production must be addressed from the standpoint of maximizing both productivity and quality. Failure to appreciate or deal appropriately with any aspect can result in management difficulties, pest problems, or production of low-quality trees which are difficult to sell in competitive markets.

Effectiveness of insecticide or fungicide applications may be poor if sprays do not penetrate the dense outer canopy. On the other hand, shearing can remove much of the damage caused by shoot-boring insects, Pales weevil (Hylobius pales) and other pests. A good understanding of potential pest problems as well as consumer preferences should help growers develop suitable shearing practices.

In late summer, trees with that will be harvested that year are identified and marked with tags or flagging. Many growers spray trees with a water-soluble green latex pigment in August or September. The green paint is applied to mask the characteristic yellowing of foliage which commonly occurs in some varieties of Scotch pine, eastern white pine and Douglas-fir. Needles begin to turn yellow in fall, in response to shorter photoperiod and cooler temperatures.

Christmas trees are produced by two principal types of operations; "wholesale" or "choose-and-cut" plantations. Most trees offered for sale at retail outlets such as garden centers, nursery stores, high volume discount stores and lots operated by service clubs, were produced by wholesale growers. These are individuals or companies that operate and manage large plantations of trees. They may sell trees either directly to retail outlets or to "brokers" who in turn market trees to retailers. Some large operations may sell 100,000 trees or more each year. - 39969

About the Author:

Paul Myers provides articles on behalf of the Christmas Tree Company, the official website of the Christmas Tree Company Online Ltd, a provider of premium quality Real Christmas trees and Decorative Christmas Lights. The company is located in the North West of England and delivers nationwide.