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 Christmas trees begin their life in a nursery. Seeds are taken from the cones of mature trees, planted and covered with straw.
They are also covered with a shade cloth to prevent them from being damaged by frost or sun. After two years the seedlings are ready to be moved to the line-out beds for further growth.
Line-out beds allow the seedlings to grow without competition from larger trees. With all the trees being of a similar size, they have an equal opportunity for sunlight and water. The seedlings stay in the line-out bed for two years or until they are strong enough to be transplanted into the field.
During the seven to eight years the trees remain in the field, we spend time and effort shaping them. After the trees reach a height of three feet they are sheared for the first time.
During the shearing process, the top of the tree, or leader is cut back. By slowing the upward growth process, the tree will branch out more quickly. As the tree begins to branch out, we trim the branches to shape the tree and this will help to give it a fuller appearance.
We also follow sound soil conservation practices, protecting the soil from erosion and being careful not to deplete it of its nutrients.
 At harvest time we identify finished trees by placing a ribbon on them. The ribbons are color coded with each height being assigned a different color. Often, a whole field is not ready for sale in any one year. It often takes two to four years before a field is cleared and ready for new trees to be planted.
The tagged trees are cut and then netted. This is done to protect the trees and to make them easier to transport. After being netted, the trees are taken to the loading yard where they are checked for quality and height for a second time, labeled and placed on lorries to be dispatched to you.
Producing the best tree for your family takes a lot of time and effort. It can take anywhere from twelve to fifteen years for a tree to be ready to harvest. Yet, all Christmas tree growers agree that this a long hard job which is worth it when their trees become the decorative centre piece of your home during the festive season.
Did you ever think that by using a live Christmas tree in your house that you were actually helping the environment? Real trees help the environment from the time they are planted until after Christmas, when they can be recycled.
While they are growing, Christmas trees support life by absorbing carbon dioxide and other gases, while giving off fresh oxygen. Every acre of Christmas trees planted gives off enough oxygen to meet the needs of 18 people.
 Also, as a Christmas tree grower we help to stabilize soil, protect water supplies, and provide a refuge for wildlife while creating a nice scenic view. Often, Christmas trees are grown on soil that will not support any other crops. And when one Christmas tree is cut down at least one is planted in its place.
Artificial trees are made from oil-based products that use up our natural resources. They are also not recyclable and will remain in land-fills for centuries after disposal.
Real Christmas trees, on the other hand, are recyclable. The branches and trunk are biodegradable and can be made into mulch for the garden. Large quantities of trees make effective barriers on beaches to prevent soil erosion. Sunk into ponds, the trees will also make an excellent refuge and feeding area for fish. | 
