[SustainableTompkins] Locally-Grown Christmas Tree List on CCE website

[Sandra Repp]

Christmas Tree Tips and Local Grower List from Cooperative Extension

              Consumers who wish to purchase freshly-cut Christmas trees 
for the holidays can choose from 17 local farms now listed on the Tompkins 
County Cooperative Extension website at: 
<http://www.ccetompkins.org/>www.ccetompkins.org.

              The list includes Christmas tree farms in Ithaca, Danby, 
Freeville, Groton, Lansing, Newfield, Trumansburg, Berkshire and 
Spencer.  In addition to a variety of pre-cut or U-cut trees, some farms 
also offer potted live trees; fresh roping, swags and wreaths; handmade 
crafts; and refreshments and wagon rides to make your holiday visit 
memorable.

              New York has approximately 1,800 acres of Christmas trees and 
ranks fifth nationally in Christmas tree production.  Buying a 
locally-grown tree helps to sustain local farmers, keeps land open and 
productive, and strengthens our local economy.

              The following tips from the Christmas Tree Farmers 
Association of New York will help your fresh-cut, locally-grown tree look 
good throughout the holidays.  1. After bringing the tree home, cut 
one-quarter inch off the base of the trunk. Keep the tree outdoors in a 
container of water and protect it from the wind and sun until you're ready 
to decorate. This helps the tree retain moisture.  2. Before you bring the 
tree indoors, make another fresh cut of at least one-quarter inch off the 
base of the trunk. This reopens the tree stem so it can take water 
immediately. Place it in a stand with fresh water. Do not allow the water 
level to drop below the fresh cut or the stem will reseal.  3. Remember, 
trees are very thirsty and may drink from 2 pints to 1 gallon of water a 
day. Use a stand with 1-gallon capacity or more. Keep your tree away from 
drying heat sources such as sunny windows, hot air ducts and fireplaces. 
Check the water level daily and supply fresh water as needed.

Additional interesting Christmas tree facts can be found on the University 
of Illinois Cooperative Extension site at: 
<http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/trees/treefacts.html>http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/trees/treefacts.html

Sandy Repp
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County
615 Willow Avenue
Ithaca, NY 14850-3555
607.272.2292 x158