Unconventional Christmas Trees Blooming in the Northwest

Christmas trees represent a significant industry in the West, but rising temperatures present challenges for tree cultivators.

John Tillman is the proprietor of Tillman Christmas Trees, where vast expanses of Noble, Nordmann, Fraser, Korean, and Douglas fir trees grow on his estates in Western Washington.

“We encountered two heat waves in the past two years of 105 degrees or above that severely damaged some of our trees,” noted Tillman, who lost approximately 5,000 trees due to heat-related harm last summer.

When Tillman commenced his tree cultivation in the late 1980s, he mentioned that he never cared to water his trees. Nowadays, he irrigates his newly planted saplings during the peak of summer if there’s an intense heat wave. He is also exploring modern technologies, such as drip irrigation systems.

“Growers are facing escalating issues with high temperatures and moisture shortages in the summer,” stated Gary Chastagner, a plant pathologist at Washington State University’s Puyallup Research and Extension Center.

The most favored varieties of Christmas trees are the Fraser fir, Douglas fir, and Noble fir. Currently, Chastagner is testing exotic fir species from the opposite side of the globe that may endure warmer environments better amid climate change.

Chastagner and his research team are investigating conifers resistant to Phytophthora root rot. (Credit: Washington State University)

In his recent trials, Chastagner and his colleagues at WSU are evaluating sites where Eurasian fir species are cultivated at locations in Washington, Oregon, and California.

“We are discovering that some Eurasian species, such as Nordmann, Turkish, and Trojan fir, can thrive reasonably well under these drought-like conditions,” he mentioned.

The Pacific Northwest is the leading region in the U.S. for Christmas tree cultivation, according to Chastagner. Oregon grows 4.7 million Christmas trees annually, which constitutes over 30% of Christmas trees produced in the country.

Washington ranks fourth in holiday tree production nationwide, with about 400 Christmas tree farms across the state.

Commonly referred to as “Dr. Christmas Tree,” Chastagner has dedicated over 40 years to discovering answers to tree diseases, harmful pests, and adapting to a shifting climate for Christmas tree producers across the nation.

Research trials, such as those currently taking place across various Western states, may span a decade, Chastagner remarked. Researchers aim to examine the growth of the trees in both irrigated and dry conditions, as well as how effectively the exotic species can resist plant diseases and pests throughout the lifespan of a conifer.

“Already, we observe some variations in seedling survival,” he stated.

It typically requires around eight to ten years to cultivate a Christmas tree. As the tree develops, diseases can become more common, and pests that are not prevalent in young trees may invade and cause complications, according to Chastagner.

Gary Chastagner, center, converses with a grower and wreath inspector. (Credit: Washington State University)

“We monitor these plantings to gain a thorough understanding of the genetic diversity of these trees throughout the entire growth period, not only seedling survival,” he mentioned.

Researchers also assess features like branch architecture and quality of form in trees, noted Chastagner, which are important factors for customers when selecting a Christmas tree during the holiday season.

“We conduct post-harvest evaluations on the trees in the genetic studies to pinpoint trees with excellent needle retention qualities, which is crucial for Christmas trees,” he explained.

Research conducted by Chastagner and his team has enabled growers to keep producing premium trees, according to Tillman.

“Chastagner’s dedication to our sector over the last 40 years has provided solutions that farmers continue to implement throughout the Northwest,” Tillman expressed.

The search for a new scientist

After a distinguished and well-known career, Chastagner is set to retire this coming spring. WSU has established an endowment to promote Christmas tree research and ideally appoint a new scientist to his position, as stated by Chastagner.

“Gary Chastagner’s contributions to the Christmas tree and ornament industries have significantly benefited not just those sectors, but nearly everyone in Washington,” remarked Wendy Powers, Dean of WSU’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences.

“While no one can take Gary’s place as he approaches a well-deserved retirement, we will strive to find a scientist who can uphold his legacy and safeguard our sustainable natural resources,” Powers stated.

Even if the successor doesn’t possess all the knowledge regarding Christmas trees, they will acquire it throughout the years, suggested Chastagner.

“They will seek out new research initiatives in the future that will aid the stakeholders they represent,” he concluded.