The climate crisis is damaging agriculture across the United States, including the production of Christmas trees. Warmer temperatures, severe droughts, excessive rainfall, and extreme weather events fueled by global warming are stressing these trees and increasing their vulnerability to pests, diseases, and root rot.
According to a NOAA report, high temperatures and drought in 2021 killed over 70% of Christmas tree seedlings in Oregon, and extreme heat dried out the needles of mature trees. Similarly, Hurricane Helene caused $125 million in losses to ornamental nurseries and Christmas tree farms in North Carolina due to catastrophic flooding.
Warmer autumns also impact needle retention, as Christmas trees require cold temperatures to remain dormant. Researchers are exploring solutions to enhance resilience, such as irrigation management and soil moisture techniques. Efforts are underway to climate-proof varieties like Fraser firs, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation as the climate crisis intensifies. Read More
News Credit: The Guardian
Picture Credit: Gordon Donovan/NurPhoto/REX/Shutterstock