Growing Christmas Trees

A Guide for Minnesota and the North Central States

Alvin A. Alm, Carl E. Vogt and Carl D. Wegner

(cover photos by Dave Hansen) trees in field (and Don Breneman) decorated tree

Table of Contents Introduction Marketing the Trees Basic Considerations for the Prospective Christmas Tree Grower Selection of Planting Site Soil Topography Site Condition Selection of Species Consumer Selection Criteria Criteria for Growers Description of Species Pines Spruces Firs Planning Your Plantation Plantation Layout Spacing Sustained Production The Planting Process Quality and Size of Stock Obtaining Planting Stock Care of Planting Stock Storage of Planting Stock Planting Process Site Preparation Mechanical Chemical Cultural Practices Shaping Stump Culture Fertilizing Control of Vegetative Competition Protecting Your Plantation Fire Animals Diseases and Insects Trespass Harvesting Inventory and Tagging Artificial Coloring Freshness Cutting and Storage Shipping Contracts Grading Standards Tags and Labels Economics of Growing Christmas Trees

Alvin A. Alm professor emeritus Department of Forest Resources College of Natural Resources University of Minnesota

Carl E. Vogt extension specialist Department of Forest Resources College of Natural Resources University of Minnesota

Carl D. Wegner county extension educator Itasca County Extension Service University of Minnesota

Editor/Product Manager: Richard Sherman
Graphic Designer/Art Director: Deb Thayer
Illustrators: John Molstad, Lisa Olson
Cover Photos: Dave Hansen
Front Cover Inset Photo: Don Breneman

Produced by Communication and Educational Technology Services, University of Minnesota Extension.

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