Growing Christmas Trees in the Sierra Nevada Foothills
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. For any of Lynn's previous research or cost study, please contact mfpatton@ucanr.edu
Christmas Tree Resources and Pest Management
The University of California doesn't not have an established IPM program for Christmas trees. However, other university have resources like Radcliffe's IPM World Textbook from the Univserity of Minnesota, and the Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbook from Oregon State University, Washington State University and the University of Idaho.
UC Resources on common pests and diseases of Christmas trees
- Phytophthora, UC IPM.
- Phytophthora root rot is one of the most common diseases on Christmas trees. It is a soil-borne fungal-like water mold that can thrives in wet conditions. Read more on the link above.
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- Other Pests that affect Christmas trees:
- Spider Mites, UC IPM
- Aphids, UC IPM
- Armillaria, UC IPM
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: