Out of context, this statement would ruin our business (hah) but there are many benefits to cutting your own Christmas tree. I'm not talkin driving to a farm specifically made for selling them, I mean venture into the woods (your own or a local forest if you get approval) to find YOUR perfect Christmas tree.
Not only is it a fun activity to do with those you love, but it has the same benefits to the forest floor that responsible land clearing and management does! Finding/cutting your own tree:
• Provides more room for other trees to grow, resulting in less stress and giving them the strength to fight invasives.
• Allows for easier access to the water, nutrients, and sunlight the trees need to healthily flourish! However, there are things that you should be sure to consider when cutting down your own Christmas tree. Here are a few tips to ensure what you do is safe, legal, and allows your tree lives to see December 25th!
Here are the 6 things that you need to be sure to consider before searching for, finding, and cutting your perfect tree.
1. Make sure to cut your tree between late November and mid-December! Generally, a well-watered tree holds its needles a little less than a month.
2. Some areas require a permit to cut down a tree, often for a small fee. Make sure to respect the land and check with your local forestry department on this! The tree size may be regulated if you are wanting to cut down a tree that is not on your private property. Of course if it's on your own property- go for it!
3. Cut it low to the ground. This cut will allow the tree to re-sprout and form another down the road!
4. Do not push the tree over once it's partially cut. This can cause the bark to split and splinter.
5. When you get home, take a 1 inch off the bottom of the trunk to help it to soak up nutrients and water faster.
6. ALL KINDS of "Christmas trees" grow in Tennessee. Do your research and consider what you are looking for in a tree before cutting one down willy-nilly! For example, Frasier Fir trees (most popular) tend to have stiffer branches which are great for heavy ornaments and lights. while White Pine is better for lighter (if any) ornaments.
Check out Tennessee Christmas Trees to decide which tree is right for you. https://www.tennesseechristmastrees.org/christmas-tree-types/