• By Phyllis B. Smith
• Posted Friday, December 4, 2020

Plan a Family Outing for a Real NC Christmas Tree!

Did you know that North Carolina is one of the top Christmas tree growing states in the nation? With over 1000 tree farms, N.C. producers provide a boost to our economy and the perfect opportunity for a family outing to select a real NC tree! Wherever you live in North Carolina, there’s probably a Christmas tree farm nearby, with selections reflecting each region of the state. The Frasier Fir is restricted to elevations above 4,500 feet, but as the most popular Christmas tree choice in North America, it’s shipped to every state in the U.S. and overseas. White Pines are also available in mountain regions, before giving way to eastern red cedars in the Piedmont. The well-drained soils of the Coastal Plain yield Virginia pines, with good needle retention and strong branches to support heavier ornaments. In addition to these traditional choices, several varieties of cypress are gaining traction in North Carolina. Try pairing a “Blue Ice” or “Carolina Sapphire” with blue and silver-themed ornaments to create a winter-wonderland. For guidance on selecting just the right tree see https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/selection-and-care-of-christmas-trees