The OSU Christmas tree program is based at the North Willamette Research and Extension Center in Clackamas county, the heart of Christmas tree production in Oregon. Christmas tree breeding, tree growth and culturing, Integrated Pest and Farm Management (IPM) are the main focus of the program.
NWREC Seed Orchards
Grafting began in 2013 on the Noble fir Christmas tree seed orchard. This orchard was the first of 5 orchards to be developed for improved seed production at NWREC. The most recent addition is a Trojan fir orchard, which may be the first of its kind in the United States. Other seed orchards include: Turkish fir, Nordmann fir and Douglas-fir.
Grower Resources
Resources for Christmas tree growers.
Extension
Christmas tree information including ongoing research and other updates from the OSU Christmas tree program.
Featured in the Winter 2024 edition of the Christmas tree Lookout published by the PNWCTA.
Drip Irrigation System for Field-Grown Christmas Tree Seedlings features Christmas tree grower Kirk Stroda explaining his method for keeping his seedling alive through the hot and dry summers in the PNW.
Program Contacts
Priya Rajarapu,
Extension Christmas Tree Specialist
Judy Kowalski,
Bio Science Research Technician, Christmas Trees
PNW Weed Management Handbook
The latest information and reference material for weed control practices and herbicides used in Christmas tree production.
PNW Insect Management Handbook
Management information on all major Christmas tree pests.
PNW Plant Disease Management Handbook
Easy to use reference guide. Tip for using this guide: Enter "fir" into search field to find diseases related to all Christmas trees species.
In the News
Oregon maintains top Christmas tree producer title by adapting
A feature story from the OSU Newsroom, Nov. 25, 2025
Featured Grower Resources
Developing Quality Christmas Trees in the Pacific Northwest
(PNW684) Chal Landgren. Guide to growing and culturing many common PNW Christmas tree species.
Christmas tree Nutrient Management Guide
(EM 8856-E) Authored by several topic experts. Comprehensive guide to for Christmas tree growers in Oregon and Washington.
Weed and Vegetation Management Strategies in Christmas Trees
(PNW625) Ed Peachey, Chal Landgren and Tim Miller. Complete weed guide and chemical information.