The festive season wouldn't be complete without the iconic Christmas tree, and Oregon plays a significant role in providing these symbols of holiday cheer. As the leading producer of Christmas trees in the US, Oregon harvests approximately 4 million trees each year, representing a third of the nation's total production and generating around $120 million in revenue.
At the heart of this industry is Holiday Tree Farms, often recognized as the world's largest Christmas tree farm. Established in 1955 by the Schudel family, this sprawling 8,500-acre farm harvests an impressive 1 million trees annually. During the peak season, the farm's 12 processing yards employ around 600 people, ensuring that these festive evergreens reach homes worldwide.
While the Douglas fir remains a customer favorite, Holiday Tree Farms cultivates a variety of fir trees, including Grand, Noble, and Nordmann. These trees are not only distributed across the United States but are also exported internationally to countries like Mexico, Guam, and various nations in Asia and Central America.
The journey of a Christmas tree from seedling to a family's living room is a lengthy one. An average-sized tree, typically six to seven feet tall, requires about seven years to mature, and some can take up to 15 years. Each spring, farmers diligently replace harvested trees with new seedlings, ensuring a sustainable cycle of growth. With around 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees sold annually in the US, and approximately 350 million currently growing, the Christmas tree industry is a testament to the enduring appeal of this holiday tradition.
