The magnitude of Michigan's timber industry is reflected by the fact that half the state's land is forested. Lumber, furniture, pulp and paper products contribute billions of dollars to the state's economy annually.

Michigan follows Oregon as the nation's number two Christmas tree producer. In 1999, 830 growers sold over 3 million trees.

The climate, soils and topography of Michigan permit the production of many popular species of Christmas trees including Austrian, Red, Scotch and White Pine, Balsam, Concolor, Douglas and Fraser Fir, and Blackhills, Colorado Blue and White Spruce.

When selecting a Christmas tree, use a few simple tests to check freshness. First, choose one with resilient needles that don't easily snap when bent. Next, bump the base of the tree on the ground to ensure that your choice isn't one that easily loses its needles. The freshness of the cut can be determined by feeling the bottom of the stump for moist sap.

If you are not using your tree immediately upon bringing it home, store it outdoors, away from the sun and wind, to conserve moisture. Before standing your tree at home, cut one inch (diagonally) from the bottom of the trunk to facilitate water uptake and feed it initially with warm water. Remember to keep plenty of water in your stand to prevent the tree from drying and becoming a fire hazard. An average tree can use from one pint to one quart of water daily.

Selecting and Caring for Your Holiday Tree
Get Real for Christmas! Select Michigan Christmas Trees, Wreaths and Ropes
Christmas Tree Production and Inspection

For more information about Michigan timber and Christmas trees, contact:

Michigan Christmas Tree Association

Michigan Association of Timbermen

Michigan Forest Association