'Tis the Season - Of Planting and Pruning

Christmas tree farmers throughout New Hampshire have been busy the past few weeks planting fir tree seedlings and fertilizing endless rows of growing Christmas trees.

It takes several years – and hours of hands-on care – for a tiny seedling, like the one shown in this photo, to grow into someone's perfect Christmas tree. While most folks don’t consider a tree until it’s time to select one for holiday trimming, New Hampshire Christmas tree farmers spend much of the spring and summer tending to their crops – from planting the seedlings to top pruning and side pruning each tree by hand later in the summer.

With many thousands of acres throughout the state dedicated to growing Christmas trees, and about 1,000 trees planted per acre – well, that’s a lot of tender loving Christmas tree care!

Caring for your Christmas tree

You've found a beautiful tree and brought it home to deck the halls - here are a few tips for keeping your tree fresh and fragrant through the holiday season:

• If you haven't yet set your tree up, make a fresh cut, removing the lower 1/2-inch of the trunk.
• Whether your tree has been set up for weeks or you're just putting it in the stand now, WATER is the key to keeping your Christmas tree fresh! Check your tree stand regularly to ensure the bottom of the trunk is submerged.
• As much as possible, keep your Christmas tree away from radiators, fireplaces, and other sources of drying heat.
• For more tips, visit our tree care page.

Happy holidays from the New Hampshire Christmas tree growers... May your days be merry and bright, and may your farm fresh Christams tree contribute to your holiday joy!