The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau says farmers are reporting strong sales of “live” Christmas trees at Pennsylvania farms. Growers say the supply of trees is just right to meet the demand and that it’s a growers market.

Pennsylvania is one of the top five Christmas tree producing states and leads the United States in the number of farms (2,164) with Christmas trees in production.

Nationally, overall sales of natural Christmas trees have declined over the past decade, while sales of artificial trees has risen.

“Although more people are buying artificial trees, there is a new trend of people who are buying live Christmas trees for the first time. Many of my customers from suburban Pittsburgh say they were raised on fake trees and can’t believe how beautiful real trees are and how nice they smell,” added Mancabelli, who operates E-Mar Acres Tree Farm in Saltsburg, Indiana County.

One segment of Christmas tree sales that is growing involves farms where customers can choose and cut their own trees. “Families have made the process of buying a Christmas tree an event. They’ll pack food, take pictures and play in the snow while trying to pick out the perfect tree,” said Mancabelli.

Many farmers are providing other activities to encourage families to come out and buy a tree. “We have a cookie hut, where customers can get free hot chocolate, hot cider and cookies. Santa Claus is also there on weekends and there is an area where you can write Santa a letter,” said Sue McCain, co-owner of Sheerlund Forests in Reading, Berks County.

The extras offered at Sheerlund Forests make a big difference in the bottom line. “Our Christmas tree sales have been very good, and there’s no question that added features such as free wagon rides, our ornament shop and our 94 cent children’s ornament tree helps bring customers to our farm,” added McCain.

A new trend in Christmas tree buying this year appears to be bigger is better. “There has been some pressure this year for larger trees. Many people have purchased new homes with cathedral ceilings and are looking for trees 12 feet and up to fill their rooms,” said Bill Hartzell, owner of Seven Springs Tree Farm in Orrtanna, Adams County.

For more information visit the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association website.

12/10/2004