This season might summon visions of summer vacations and sunbathing, but for Christmas tree growers, it signals sweat, strategy and survival. These hot, hectic months are a pivotal period in the production of picture-perfect pines.
To deliver full-bodied firs in December, growers must diligently defend, develop and direct their crops through summertime’s scorching sun.
Despite the heat and hurdles, the Christmas tree industry continues to thrive. “The industry overall is pretty healthy, partly because of its diverse nature of businesses,” said Rick Dungey, executive director of the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA).
“Not surprisingly, there are also many challenges, as there is to any type of farming,” noted John Wyckoff, NCTA president. “Weather extremes, labor costs, financing and equipment maintenance are always on top of the mind for tree farmers.”
Summer is no time to slack off. Whether you’re a fresh-faced farmer or a seasoned soil steward, these six suggestions will help safeguard saplings and sustain strong growth through the hottest part of the year.
- Mulch, mow & manage weeds.
Weeds wage war on water and nutrients, especially in summer’s dry days. During these warmer weeks, mowing mindfully can help keep weeds in check without scorching soil. Instead of cutting close, mow higher and leave clippings as a moisture-preserving mulch to shield soil and roots.
For newly planted pines, mulching matters. A blanket of bark, wood chips or pine needles can conserve moisture, suppress stubborn weeds and slowly supplement soil as it breaks down. Focus on a three-inch-thick mulch ring around the base, being careful not to crowd the trunk.
- Water wisely & watchfully.
When summer sizzles young trees can thirst. Unlike their more deep-rooted and drought-resilient elders, new seedlings need regular refreshment to survive.
Installing drip irrigation helps deliver deep drinks directly to roots without wasting water. These systems minimize moisture loss and help avoid the disease risks linked to overhead watering.
If overhead irrigation is your only option, be wary and wet wisely. Watering in the early morning or late evening limits evaporation and reduces the risk of foliage burn. Keep a close eye on soil saturation, especially during dry spells. A little consistency now can mean full, festive foliage later.
- Patrol for pests & prevent problems.
Pests and pathogens are especially pernicious when it’s hot. From aphids to adelgids to bagworms, the usual suspects emerge with a vengeance under the blazing sun.
The best practice here is a proactive patrol plan. Walk your rows weekly to spot suspicious symptoms – wilting, webbing, needle yellowing or insect infestations. Watch for disease too, particularly fungal foes like needle cast and root rot, which flourish in humid environments.
Document everything and don’t delay decisions. When action is needed, work with local Extension experts to keep your tree population protected.
- Shear smartly for shape & structure.
Shearing is a sculptor’s skill, vital for crafting that classic conical Christmas contour. But like all summer steps, timing is critical.
Typically tackled between late June and mid-August, shearing should start after new growth firms up, when it snaps rather than bends. Shearing too early may spark new shoots susceptible to heat damage; too late and trees may not have time to harden off before the cold.
Use sharp shears to shape trees evenly. When done correctly, shearing not only builds beauty – it also boosts branching and balances overall growth.
- Foster fertile, functional soil.
Be aware that soil fertility falters fast under summer stress. Nutrient-deficient dirt leads to discoloration, drooping and diminished development.
While summer isn’t the standard season for fertilizing it is a smart time to study soil conditions. Conduct a soil test every one to two years to track pH, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels.
If problems like pale needles pop up, consider applying micronutrient mixes or foliar feeds early in the morning. But beware: over-fertilization in summer can cause more harm than help. Let science, not guesswork, guide your growing.
- Stay studious & seek innovation.
Experienced evergreen experts know that farming is ever evolving. Research is progressing, with promising projects aimed at improving every aspect of tree cultivation.
“One exciting thing in our industry now is the large amount of research projects that will help us as growers for years to come,” said Wyckoff. “Genetic improvement, pest and disease management and technology improvements are all areas projects are focusing on.”
Staying informed is more essential than optional. Join grower groups, attend field days and subscribe to seasonal science newsletters. New tools like drone surveys, smart irrigation sensors and disease-resistant cultivars are shaping the future of fir farming. Being a student of the soil is swiftly becoming synonymous with a successful sower.
Tree farmers know summer is a time for hot, hard hustle. Absent sleigh bells or snowy pines, August’s gritty groundwork facilitates a solid yuletide yield.
