Good growing season for Christmas trees but climate change concerns remain

Christmas tree farmers in southern Ontario say they’ve had a good growing season, but they remain concerned about the future of the industry.

Chickadee Christmas Trees is a family-run farm in Puslinch, Ont. that’s been in business since 1997.

Owner Alison McCrindle said this year’s weather was more optimal than previous ones.

“We had a nice wet spring and summer. We've had lots of trees in the field, and we actually sold out of the ‘cut your own’ on Sunday.”

While demand is high, Chickadee still has many more pre-cut trees to choose from.

McCrindle has seen the industry change over of the years. She admits prices for a fresh cut tree have gone up in the last five years, but the increase has been gradual.

“For a seven-foot balsam, for instance, the most common price is about $95,” she said.

Biodegradable netting at Chickadee Christmas Trees in Puslinch, Ont.

New at Chickadee this year is the biodegradable netting that staff wrap the trees in.

“First of all, coming to a family of farmers is more sustainable. But the fact that they have that is also a big selling point,” said Emily Kesteloot, a customer from Guelph.

Kesteloot was picking up a tree with her mother and found the perfect one, even if it had slight imperfections.

“I mean, look at it. It's curvy, it's quirky, it's unique. It's nice and full,” she said.

Future of Christmas trees

Climate change remains a top concern for most tree farmers.

The Canadian Christmas Tree Association has been working with the University of Waterloo’s Christmas Tree Lab to try to find solutions for changing and challenging weather patterns.

“We certainly want to preserve our trees and our species,” Shirley Brennan, executive director for the association, said.

Chickadee Christmas Trees in Puslinch, Ont. (Heather Senoran/CTV News)

When the weather becomes too unpredictable, such as too hot or too humid, crops can go downhill.

They’re looking at how to keep moisture in the ground – no matter the weather.

“Solutions around mulch are being tested right now, irrigation and what that looks like,” Brennan explained.

Another problem is the sustainability of the industry, as many farmers near retirement age.

Brennan is encouraging younger farmers to find new and innovative ways to get people out to their farms more than just once a year.

“That may look like yoga retreats, sunflowers or lavender,” she suggested.

Brennan said its important to keep the Christmas tree industry thriving – not just during the busy holiday season.