ag-formation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2002

What do Christmas tree growers do before Christmas?

COLUMBIA, SC ---- Despite the summer heat and drought, Christmas tree growers throughout South Carolina are putting finishing touches on trees that will be ready for this holiday season.

There are lots of chores, as a matter of fact, that take place during this time of the year. Trimming and top trimming, spraying for insects, and colorizing are at the top of the list for most growers.

"Top trimming allows the tree to fill out more and promotes dense lateral branches, which will be the ones you hang the ornaments on," said Chip Fink, owner of Mystic Farm in Greenville. "Then, we also work to preserve the rich green colors in the summertime, because come first frost the colors start to fade."

Many growers also task themselves with pruning the base of each young tree. This eliminates cumbersome lower branches that make it hard to place the Christmas tree in its tree stand, said Fink.

"Most do not realize that the trees they put in their homes are four to ten years old and require year-around care," said Tom Sawyer, President of the South Carolina Christmas Tree Association.

Many families have a long tradition of visiting local farms and harvesting their tree each year. More and more are taking advantage of this opportunity to spend quality time together in this type of open, refreshing atmosphere.

Local farms offer more than just trees," said Sawyer. "Many provide a variety of wreaths, garland, hayrides, and sometimes hot cider, fudge, and other South Carolina specialty products."

For additional information on the South Carolina Christmas Tree Association and a listing of members and what they have to offer, go to www.scchristmastrees.org.

Click here for a photo of trimming, shaping, and base pruning.

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