After two years of provide challenges and rising struggles, Ontario’s Christmas tree trade expects an excellent vacation season forward.
Fred Somerville, president of Somerville Nurseries in Everett, attributes the success to beneficial climate.
“We have had more rain this past summer, which has helped the quality of the trees, and that is always great,” he stated.
Somerville operates about 3,000 acres of Christmas timber, and expects round 120,000 to be bought throughout the province.
“Growers are meeting the demand, and the demand is still quite strong, so it’s been a great year,” Somerville stated.
However like every part, the price of timber is up this season, with labour and gasoline the largest elements.
Andrew Drysdale of Drysdale’s Tree Farm stated their prices are up about 5 per cent this yr, however demand stays excessive.
Drysdale’s expects to promote round 18,000 Christmas timber this season.
“The past two weekends are usually the busiest, but this coming weekend should still be busy, kids coming home from university and stuff after exams,” Drysdale stated.
For these new to buying an actual Christmas tree, like Tom Jordinson, visiting a tree farm is an thrilling first.
“It’s cold, it’s wet, but I’m looking forward to finding a tree, cutting it down, and getting amongst the proper winter Christmas traditions,” he shared.
Specialists suggest Fraser Fir timber for his or her longevity – they’ll last as long as six weeks with correct care, together with loads of water, whereas different varieties usually final three to 4 weeks.
