According to Dennis Bell with Papa Goats Tree Farm, Christmas tree pedigree is particularly important: "Certain species are more resilient and remain fresh longer, including our Evergreen Trail Trees, often selected for America's finest residences, including the White House. When choosing a tree, use your senses and even shake your tree to gauge its condition."
In general, freshly cut trees last longer than those purchased from a retailer. "Unlike live trees sold at retail, the trunks of freshly cut trees do not necessarily need to be recut. But, be sure to water your live tree daily throughout the holiday season," added Bell. "For each inch of stem diameter, trees need up to a quart of water daily."
Evergreen Trail owners suggest taking special care when decorating trees. "Use electric lights in good condition, don't overload outlets, and turn off decorations before going to bed or leaving your home," commented Sam Miller, Sam & Edna's Trees.
"Most of all, we hope everyone who visits our farms enjoys their mountain fresh Christmas tree this season," reflected Miller. "After all, it's the perfect backdrop for memorable times with loved ones."
This holiday season, Evergreen Trail Christmas Farms is sponsoring their Evergreen Alleghany County Adventure Package giveaway. And, in the spirit of helping those less fortunate, they have organized their Gift for the Soul Food Drive, and are partnering with The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Habitat for Humanity to donate Christmas trees to needy families.
We’ve had a good growing season and consumers will find a good, healthy selection and wide variety of sizes which to choose from,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
Consumers who don’t have time to drive to the mountains can find fresh, N.C. Christmas trees at stands and local farmers markets starting this weekend.
The Fraser fir is the dominant Christmas tree produced in North Carolina, where the elevation and climate in western counties create perfect growing conditions for the crop. North Carolina growers also produce Concolor fir, blue spruce, red cedar, Leyland cypress, Carolina Saphire and Blue Ice Arizona cypress and white pine trees.
For a list of choose and cut farms in North Carolina, visit www.ncfarmfresh.com.
North Carolina Christmas tree facts:
North Carolina ranks second in the nation in Christmas tree production.
More than 5 million Christmas trees are harvested annually.
In 2010, Christmas tree cash receipts generated $85 million for the state's economy.
There are more than 1,000 Christmas tree growers in the state, with farms ranging from 1/10 of an acre to more than 1,000 acres.
N.C. Christmas tree growers have committed to donate more than 1,000 trees to the Trees for Troops program. Trees will be delivered to military families stationed at Marine Corp Air Station New River, Camp LeJeune, Fort Story in Virginia, and Fort Bliss in Texas.
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