UCCE Central Sierra Agriculture

Christmas Trees Production

Growing Christmas Trees in the Sierra Nevada Foothills

 

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Christmas tree production has become a lucrative farming business in the foothills attracting more and more growers. The Emeritus Advisor, Lynn Wunderlich, has previously had worked with farms to determine more resilient species and completed a Christmas Tree Cost Study 2005. 

 

 

 

Christmas Tree Resources and Pest Management

Phytophthora
Phytophthora
Phytophthora lesion
Phytophthora lesion

Where to cut your Christmas tree

On Private Land

You can choose and cut your own Christmas tree (or have help with cutting) at tree farms in the Placerville to Camino area off Highway 50. Sales start the day after Thanksgiving and farms are open on weekends. For locations and other amenities (such as refreshments, crafts, wreaths and children's activities) as well as specific tree types available, see the El Dorado County Christmas Tree Grower's Association webpage.

To find trees in your area:

California Christmas Tree Association to find Farms  in Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties

On Public Land

Christmas trees can be cut by families and individuals in nine national forests in California. Buy your permit and map in advance from the US Forest Service headquarters listed during regular business hours. Bring your own saw and follow the permit conditions. For locations and details see:

US Forest Service Christmas Tree Cutting permit locations