The Evolution of Christmas Tree Farming: A Billion-Dollar Tradition

The Origins of Christmas Tree Farming

The Christmas tree farming industry in the United States traces its origins to 1851 when Mark Carr, an enterprising farmer, brought two sleds loaded with evergreen trees to New York City, selling them all and planting the seed for a new industry. By 1901, the industry took a significant leap forward when a New Jersey farmer cultivated 25,000 Norway spruce trees, selling them seven years later at a dollar each.

Growth and Tradition in the Early 20th Century

Initially, the industry grew at a modest pace. In 1940, an estimated 90% of Christmas trees were still harvested from wild forests. Families cherished the tradition of selecting and cutting their own trees, a practice that was deeply ingrained in the holiday experience. The concept of purchasing a pre-selected tree was, at the time, largely unfathomable to many.

Post-War Expansion and Agricultural Integration

After World War II, Christmas tree farming began to be seen as a viable supplement to traditional agriculture. Farmers with less fertile land found that evergreen trees could thrive, providing a valuable crop that could be harvested in winter, thus balancing the year's income.

The Shift to Full-Time Farming in the 1960s

The 1960s marked a decline in part-time Christmas tree farming and the rise of full-time operations. Regions like the Pacific Northwest, North Carolina, and Michigan became hotspots for this burgeoning industry.

Market Fluctuations and the Rise of Artificial Trees

The 1980s brought an oversupply of Christmas trees, causing prices to plummet from $18-$30 to as low as $5 by the early 1990s. This price drop forced many farmers out of the market. The 1990s also saw a shift towards artificial trees for reasons ranging from cost-effectiveness and convenience to safety concerns and environmental misconceptions.

Resurgence and Modern Understanding

In recent years, live Christmas tree sales have rebounded as consumers have become more informed. Managed farms, not forests, are the source of live Christmas trees, and with proper care, including consistent watering facilitated by automated systems, they pose little fire hazard.

Christmas Trees in Agricultural Data

The U.S. agricultural census included Christmas trees for the first time in 1997. Data from the USDA's 2002 census revealed nearly 22,000 farms dedicated to growing evergreen trees for Christmas. Oregon, North Carolina, and Michigan led in production.

The Future of Christmas Tree Farming

As awareness grows that live Christmas trees are a sustainable choice, the market's future looks promising. The decision between live and artificial trees remains a personal one, often influenced by family tradition.

Interesting Stats and Trends

• According to the National Christmas Tree Association, in 2018, consumers in the U.S. purchased 32.8 million real Christmas trees and 23.6 million artificial trees. National Christmas Tree Association
• The average price of a live Christmas tree was $78 in 2018, up from $75 in 2017. Statista
• Real Christmas trees are a renewable, recyclable resource, with one to three new seedlings planted for every tree harvested. National Christmas Tree Association

The Christmas tree farming industry has not only survived but thrived through various economic challenges and changing consumer preferences. As it continues to adapt to modern practices and environmental considerations, it remains a significant and cherished part of holiday traditions and agricultural commerce.