Christmas Tree Plot

SAE:

Start a small Christmas tree plot

Description:

-Christmas trees are a great project if one has a small plot of cleared land available. A well-developed tree can be grown in less time in Georgia than in northern states because of the longer growing season and more favorable climate. However, more intensive cultural practices are required to produce a quality tree.

-White pine and Virginia pine grow well in north Georgia. At the highest elevations, some varieties of spruce develop into quality Christmas trees. In the Piedmont and throughout middle Georgia, the recommended species are Virginia pine, white pine, and eastern red cedar. In the state’s Coastal Plain, Virginia pine and eastern red cedar do well. Leyland cypress has become a popular tree in the last five years.

-If weeds are not controlled, tree growth is reduced, tree shape is distorted, and many trees will die from competition for light, space, moisture, and nutrients.

-Some tree species are susceptible to insects and disease.

-Pruning is absolutely necessary to get the maximum number of well-formed Christmas trees.

Factors To Consider	Ranking: 1 = lowest 10 = highest
Time required	4
Investment	6
Equipment needed	5
Skills required	4
Facilities required	2
Land required	10
Labor Intensity	5
Potential for income	5
Transportation required	2
Expansion possibilities	8
Expertise needed	5
Advertising needed	6
Susceptible to disease	5
Susceptible to insects	5
Suitable for residential areas	1
	Other (specify)
Length of production cycle	4-6 years
Regional	Certain species
When to start project	Fall