Tree Farm

Texas Agrilife Extension Master Gardeners in Leon County tour local
Christmas Tree Farm. Steve and Carole Huebner of Leona, Texas hosted the
new master gardener interns for a very informative session on growing
Christmas Trees. There's nothing like going directly to the farm and
cutting down your own tree. You won't get a tree any fresher and you can
pick just the right tree, that's for sure. But there's more to it than
that. It can be a memorable family adventure out in the country; these
tips will help you prepare for your visit. What to expect at the farm.
Saws and equipment- Saws are usually provided, and most will cut the
tree for you if you'd rather not cut it yourself. Some farms let you
choose the tree, but not cut it yourself, so be sure to ask. Most farms
also provide wheelbarrows, wagons or hay rides for transport. Many will
wrap your tree and tie it on your car for you. If you’re planning to
haul your tree home on the roof of your car, bring a sheet of plastic or
an old blanket to protect the paint and finish. You may also want to
bring your own rope or bungee cords. Shaking - The trees have been
living outside all year. Trees are shaken on a mechanical shaker to
remove any brown needles from inside the tree or leaves from other
trees. Baling - Many farms also have baling (tree wrapping for
transporting) or bagging for no fee or a small fee. Refreshments –
Some tree farms provide free coffee or hot chocolate; others sell drinks
or other food items, or bring your own picnic lunch. Miscellaneous -
Tree stands are usually sold on the farms. Many farms also sell disposal
bags which will help to make clean up after Christmas much easier! Gift
shops - Christmas-themed gift shops selling ornaments, wreaths,
stockings and crafts are standard at many farms! What to bring? Dress in
old clothes and hiking boots or old athletic shoes; you want to be
comfortable and not worried about staining or tearing your clothes! If
the ground is wet, it can stain or damage nice shoes, so wear your beat
up old ones! Bring heavy gloves to protect your hands and a jacket or
other garment to protect your arms. Bring layered clothing, and some
extra socks and a blanket. Dress for the weather. The kids may get wet
feet, or cold. When you get back to the car, you can wrap them up in the
blanket and they'll sleep all the way home! Don't forget the camera to
capture those memories you're making. But remember you'll be out on the
farm so you may want to bring a cheap or disposable camera rather than
an expensive one. Transporting your tree home: prepare the tree - get
the tree shaken and baled (wrapped) before loading it. Loading and
transporting the tree – Most farms will help you load your tree into
your truck, or tie it onto your car. Just make sure its tied on
securely. Pull on the tree and make sure it's tightly tied. Drive home
safely! Enjoy your real Christmas tree, and begin a new family
tradition!







Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service