Ask SAM: Christmas trees produce income

This column is provided by Larimer County Extension's Small Acreage Management (SAM) Program to assist rural residents.

Dear SAM,

Every year I see Christmas tree lots with trees selling for pretty high prices. How can I get a piece of the action by growing trees?

Chris

Dear Chris,

Money can grow on trees, but slowly.

Christmas tree producers in Larimer County must address the environmental challenges of low rainfall and high soil pH. Most conifers prefer soils with a pH below 7.5. Perform a soil test before planting trees, and use the information to help you select appropriate species. High soil pH is more likely to be a problem on the plains than in the foothills and mountains.

Scotch pines are relatively tolerant of local growing conditions and are the easiest and fastest species to grow. Scotch pines have long needles that stay on the tree well after harvest.

Many customers prefer Christmas trees with shorter needles such as Douglas fir and white fir. Firs are less tolerant than Scotch pine of high pH soils. Firs are also slower growing, requiring more years until harvest. These production challenges are rewarded by the higher prices customers will pay for a fresh fir tree.

If you decide to go ahead with a tree plantation, plant several species to see which perform well on your site. Spread the plantings out over several years. This will give you a more continuous supply of mature trees and will spread your risks associated with planting failures.

If you own two acres or more, inexpensive seedlings can be purchased from the Colorado State Forest Service. For an additional fee, the CSFS will plant the trees and lay down a weed barrier.

You can plant about 1,400 trees per acre. Space your rows to accommodate equipment such as tractors and mowers. Early spring is the best time to plant.

In our dry climate, irrigation is needed to improve seedling survival and tree growth. A drip irrigation system will conserve water and deliver the water to the trees instead of the grass and weeds growing between the rows. If you are using well water, be sure your well permit allows for irrigation and your water is low in salts.

Christmas trees require annual pruning to develop good shape and structure. Pines are pruned in early summer while new growth is still succulent. Firs are pruned from late summer through winter.

Trees are ready for harvest about six to 10 years after planting.

When budgeting, plan on about 70 percent of your trees making it to the Christmas tree market. Losses will include trees that die and trees that do not develop acceptable shape and structure. Branches from poorly shaped trees can be harvested and used in wreaths or other decorations.

Establishing a Christmas tree plantation is a long-term commitment. You won't get rich, but you could generate some income on your small acreage.

SAM

Have a question about rural living? Write to Ask SAM, Larimer County Cooperative Extension, P.O. Box 543, Fort Collins, CO 80522.