Discover the fascinating journey of Christmas tree farming, from its inception in the 19th century to its current status as a billion-dollar industry. With over 31 million live Christmas trees sold in the United States in 2007, this seasonal market has deep roots and a rich history. Dive into the details of how Christmas tree farming has become an integral part of holiday traditions and agricultural business, shaping the way we celebrate and contributing significantly to the economy.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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