Cut a Tree, Plant a Tree

A few weekends ago, we met a nice young family who came with a most unusual request: after walking back and cutting a Christmas tree, would it be possible for them to plant a new tree on our farm? We politely demurred -- it's the wrong season for planting -- but we did show them our rows of potted trees, which customers may purchase for $25 and plant on their own property (in the spring). 

Nevertheless, at our company staff meeting we continued to think about their request, and the possible reasons motivating it. This particular family didn't explain why they wanted to plant the tree. We hope they weren't concerned about the health of our business (it's doing fine!). But they are not alone: more and more every year we have had families visit our farm to find a live tree to take back home. No doubt many people are concerned about the environmental consequences of cutting down a tree. Are you one of them? Rest assured that we continue to plant replacements, and we have planted many other trees that have grown big enough to offset the smaller ones that are cut down.

This year why not start a new family tradition? Cut a tree, plant a tree. Purchasing a living tree, in addition to your cut Christmas tree, is a great way to provide continuity between the seasons. Potted trees enhance an outside living space, such as a deck, and are easy to move around. Once planted in the ground trees can grow quickly, and are an ideal means of controlling erosion, drifting snow, or encroaching neighbors (a friendlier alternative to a fence). If placed correctly they may also help you moderate the temperature of your home, by blocking the wind and direct sunlight. As the trees grow big, they serve as reminders of Christmases past: of family members who have grown up to start their own families, or who have passed away in the intervening years.

Although our regular business hours end on Christmas Eve, we do sell potted and bagged pine trees throughout the year (after the snow melts). If you are interested in purchasing a live tree, you can reach us at 231-203-1127 to learn more about the varieties we may have available.