CHRISTMAS TREE GROWING

Pinus radiata are the most popular Christmas tree grown in Australia. This photo was taken on a property near my farm

These young pine seedlings have been hardened off and are ready for planting in the field

Pines have been planted approximately 1.5 metres apart within rows

This pine has not been pruned and lacks the conical shape. The foliage is not full and would make a poor quality Christmas tree

The pruned branches from pine trees make a good mulch that will suppress weeds and save on water

Weeds quickly appear around young plantings and need to be removed as soon as possible

Growing Christmas trees has been of interest to me as a way of revegetating the farm and, if I am lucky, as a means to earn a small income.

Popular Christmas Tree In Australia

In order to produce luxuriant and perfectly formed trees a great deal of skill and hard work will be required. As with any agricultural enterprise, there are many factors that will influence to success of this venture - luck will probably be one of the most important in my case!

The most popular type of Christmas tree grown in Australia is the common plantation pine ( Pinus radiata) . This is due to its intense colour, shape, growth rate and of course its strong aroma. Seedlings can be obtained at a relatively cheap price from specialist forestry suppliers, but that is the easy part.

Growing Christmas Trees

Pines are hardy plants once established, but for fast growth, a good supply of rainfall or irrigation in a well drained soil is needed. In my case I have applied a dressing of lime and am in the process of supplying a great deal of organic matter as a way to improve the water holding capacity of the soil and also it’s fertility. Hard soils need to be deeply ripped and cleared of persistent weeds in the early stages. As the pines grow there will be less need for weed control as pines have a dense canopy capable of shading out most weeds.

Damage To Christmas Trees

Beware of pests such as rabbits and parrots that may not kill seedlings, but render them less saleable if growing tips are damaged. Wind protection will be required as twisted or poorly shaped trees will produce poor returns. Periods of hot dry weather may dry out and bleach tender needles making plants unattractive for sale. Bushfires and storms can also result in damage to the plantation, as well, insect and disease infestations will also need to be monitored and controlled if necessary.

Christmas Tree Sales

A significant amount of time will need to be devoted to pruning and shaping trees in order to produce a dense symmetrical cone shaped tree. Such plants are in great demand and will give the highest returns.

A marketing plan will be needed when plants are large enough to harvest. Cut trees are perishable and quick sales will avert losses due to dehydration. Sales occur during the short period of only a few weeks before Christmas day, hence a clear marketing strategy will be needed. Keeping cut trees cool and covered in transit will slow the wilting process. Getting orders before cutting trees will allow for effective planning of the harvest. Should sales from the farm be planned, there will be a need to spend time with prospective buyers ensuring the desired tree is located and properly cut.

Christmas Trees On My Hobby Farm

Having all of these factors in mind, my small pilot plantation of 500 trees is likely to face much adversity. My biggest concern is a possible lack of water during summer should the current drought persist. If it comes to the worst however, some trees can be maintained as a windbreak for the farm - the remainder will at least add some organic matter to the soil if they have a shorter than expected life.