The Christmas Tree program at OSU receives valuable assistance from crop specialists and Extension agents from a number of disciplines and locations across OSU. Recent retirements and position changes have thinned these ranks beginning in 2012. This type of web resource will likely become a prime source of information in trying to maximize scarce time and budgets.

Chal Landgren is the OSU Extension Christmas Tree Specialist for Oregon. His program covers information from site preparation through harvest. Current extension and research efforts include sustainability certification, tree selection/breeding and fertilization.

Latest Publication available for purchase:

Identifying and Managing Christmas Tree Diseases, Pests, and Other Problems PNW 659

 

IPM in Christmas Trees Workshop Materials

IPM-A conceptual and practical overview, Paul Jepson-OSU

IPM and Pesticides, Bruce Alber-Wilbur Ellis

Developing a treatment plan, Chal Landgren-NWREC-OSU

Identifying Root Rot in Conifers, Kathleen M. McKeever-WSU Puyallup Research & Extension Center

 

Associations and Organizations:

Pacific Northwest Christmas Tree Association

National Christmas Tree Association

Soil & Water Conservation Districts

ODA Pitch and Needle Newsletters

Production and Management:

Christmas Tree Nutrient Management Guide

Pest Management Strategic Plan for Christmas Trees in Oregon, Washington and Idaho

Growing Christmas Trees in the Pacific Northwest-PNW 6 publication

Buy-Sell Directory and Resource Guide

 

Industry Statistics and Regulations:

NASS/National Agricultural Statistics Service-

Christmas Tree Shipping Regulations

Publications

Weed Control in Nursery Field Production
November 1, 2005

Information and strategies for field growers on how to reduce weeds in their crops. Topics discussed include, field preparation, sanitation, cultural practices and proper herbicide selection and use.

Adding to Growth
June 1, 2012

Researchers report on a study conducted to test the efficacy of soil additives in promoting plant growth and reducing mortality. The species included in the trial were Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Endless Summer’, Berberis thunbergii ‘Rose Glow’, and noble fir (Abies procera).

Sudden Oak Death and Phytophthora ramorum
April 1, 2006

A comprehensive guide for forest managers, Christmas tree growers, and forest-tree nursery operators in Oregon and Washington on sudden oak death, the disease caused by the recently introduced Phytophthora ramorum.

Phytophthora ramorum:A Guide for Oregon Nurseries
December 1, 2003

Very informative and useful publication for nursery management and workers. Discusses the history of Phytophthora ramorum in Oregon and its biology, hosts and symptoms. In depth information on the management and prevention of the pathogen.

Live plant imports: the major pathway for forest insect and pathogen invasions of the US
March 5, 2012

A discussion about live plant imports as an important invasion pathway for non-native plant pests. The authors discuss the effect of current regulation, the need for updated regulation, and the recent and proposed changes to plant import regulation.

Safe Procurement and Production Manual
January 1, 2012

A systems approach for the production of healthy nursery stock. The manual, published by the Oregon Association of Nurseries, is divided into 3 main parts. A systems approach introduction, voluntary best practices for your nursery, and the next step: systems approach certification.

Growing Christmas Trees in the Pacific Northwest
June 27, 2003
A guide for the prospective and novice Christmas tree grower. Includes how to evaluate risk and potential for return. Discusses the tree growing cycle, tasks and time requirements, pertinent laws and regulations, and costs, returns, and taxes. Describes 11 popular species (color photos) including their soil and site preferences, pest and disease susceptibilities, and relative market value. References. 40 pp.
2012 Update on Christmas Tree Topics
January 23, 2013
Christmas tree specialist, Chal Landgren, gives an update of shipping and exporting issues, disease and pest management and current resources for growers.
Final Report on the Nobel Fir Progeny Test
January 1, 1988
Northwest Christmas Tree Association (NWCTA) and Oregon State University conducted studies testing various Nobel fir and Douglas fir provenances for possible new Christmas tree sources. Tables provided ranking Nobel fir progeny and test sites.
Christmas Tree Nutrient Management Guide for Western Oregon and Washington
September 1, 2009
This guide is designed to help Christmas tree growers learn to assess a plantation’s nutritional needs based on soil and foliar analyses and rotational timing. It will help you design strategies for effective nutrient applications and produce high-quality trees with minimal negative environmental impact.
Christmas Tree Weed Identification and Control
Informative look at weed identification and control in Christmas tree production by Oregon State University affiliated researchers, Ed Peachey and Chal Langren.
Spreading a Green Message
September 1, 2012
A report on a current marketing outreach campaign which partners Christmas tree growers in Oregon and Washington with Oregon State University extension agents to promote real Christmas trees in major consumer markets.
The “ Best” Seed Sources for Christmas Trees
Information provided on Christmas tree seed sources and a review of research and collections in Turkey by Oregon State University affiliated researcher, Chal Landgren.
Developing Sheared Douglas-fir Christmas Trees
January 1, 1993
Discusses how to select a plantation, choose quality seed, prepare the ground for planting, lay out a plantation, plant stock, manage weeds and pests, and plan for the next crop. Describes preshearing, basal pruning, shearing techniques, and shearing tools. Provides a year-by-year cultural schedule that covers planting to harvest. Includes 3 tables, 15 figures, and sources of additional information.
Feeding Through the Leaves
August 1, 2010
Research was conducted at Oregon State University North Willamette Research and Extension Center with the objective of determining whether the addition of foliar fertilization would benefit a Christmas tree plantation or container-grown conifer operation.
Influence of Isolation Method on Recovery of Pythium Species From Forest Nursery Soils in Oregon and Washington
May 1, 2011
In an attempt to identify Pythium species (common dampening off pathogens) associated with forest nursery soils, field surveys were conducted at three forest nurseries (two in Oregon and one in Washington) in 2008 using three isolation methods.
The Effects of Methyl Bromide Alternatives on Soil and Seedling Pathogen Populations, Weeds, and Seedling Morphology in Oregon and Washington Forest Nurseries
August 29, 2011
Fumigation treatments (a conventional methyl bromide – chloropicrin application and reduced-rate alternative fumigant treatments) and a nonfumigated treatment were evaluated at forest nurseries in Oregon and Washington for their effects on soil pathogen populations, weeds, and seedling morphology.
Effect of Potting Media Component on the Infectivity of Metarhizium anisopliae against the Black Vine Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
June 1, 2006
The purpose of this study was to determine the persistence, measured as efficacy against BVW larvae, of M. anisopliae in five (coir, fir bark, hemlock bark, peat moss and perlite) common components of soilless potting media.
Changes in Polyamine Content and Localization of Pinus sylvestris ADC and Suillus variegatus ODC mRNA transcripts During the Formation of Mycorrhizal Interaction in an In Vitro Cultivation System
January 1, 2006
Research report detailing a study conducted on the involvement of polyamines (PAs) in the interaction between Pinus sylvestris L. seedlings and an ectomycorrhizal fungus Suillus variegatus (Swatz: Fr.) O. Kunze in an in vitro cultivation system.
Influence of Ectomycorrhizal Fungal Inoculation on Growth and Root IAA Concentrations of Transplanted Conifers
January 1, 1998
USDA-ARS affiliated researchers tested the hypothesis that: (1) IAA concentration of mycorrhizal conifer roots is influenced by the in vitro (IAA and ethylene) production capacity of their associated ectomycorrhizal fungi; and (2) increased concentrations of root IAA cause an increase in root growth resulting in improved seedling growth and survival.
Changes in Root IAA Content and Growth of Bareroot Conifers with Plant Growth Regulating Substances at Planting
January 1, 2000
An experiment was conducted to determine whether application of plant growth regulators (PGRs) or moisture retention materials could modify IAA concentrations in roots, new root growth, and above ground plant growth. Douglas-fir, Englemann spruce, western larch, and lodgepole pine species were used.
Ten-Year Growth and Survival of Douglas-fir Seedlings Treated with Plant Growth Regulating Substances at Transplant
January 1, 2000
A report on how the application of specific plant growth regulators (PGRs) and a moisture retention gel to the root systems of Douglas-fir can influence root indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) content, and tree growth and survival 10 years after planting in a clearcut.
A Systematic Approach to Diagnosing Plant Damage
November 1, 1990
A comprehensive guide for determining the difference between nonliving and living causes of plant damage. The authors also provide a list of available references for identifing plant problems, references topics vary from general plant problem diagnosis to crop specific.
New Insect and Mite Pests of Conifers
March 1, 1989
The Oregon State University affiliated author discusses several pests of conifers and possible controls. The pests addressed include an eriophyid mite ("leaf vagrant" type), coneworms (Dioryctria), and a spider mite (Eotetranychus libocedri).
Cold Injury During Dormancy
September 1, 1988
Information provided on cold injury occurring during dormancy. Specific topics addressed include; the effects of freeze damage, cold tolerance between plant tissues, winter sun scald, frost cankers or bark splitting, and winter drying of evergreen foliage.
Some Practical Tips on Pruning Shrubs
July 1, 1988
The comprehensive guide to pruning shrubs is broken down into three main categories; plants flowering on current years growth, plants flowering on old growth, and plants grown for special effects. The author also addresses problems, solutions, and conclusions in relation to pruning shrubs.
Desiccation Control of Bare Root Stock
July 1, 1988
The Michigan State University affiliated author addresses the issue of desiccation of bare-root nursery stock. Topics of discussion include; conditions that increase the probability of desiccation, most susceptible phases for bare-root stock desiccation, and control methods.
Perennial Weed Control in Nurseries
September 1, 1986
The author discusses the importance of noxious weed control in nursery crops along with chemical control methods. Specific noxious weeds identified in nurseries include yellow nutsedge, quackgrass, Canada thistle, field bindweed, horsetail rush, blackberries, and dandelion.
Biological Control of Insects With Insect-Pathogenic Nematodes - A Brief Status Report
April 1, 1987
Increased interest in using biological control of insects by nurseries prompted the author to provide the brief report on using pathogenic nematodes for insect control. Topics discussed include nematode species, nematode lifecycle, host insects, and other factors.
Foliar Fertilization Efficacy
December 22, 2009
Final report on research project comparing different methods of fertilization of field grown conifers and also containerized conifers. Study covers methods used, products tested and results obtained.
Eriophyid Mites on Pine
September 1, 1986
An informative discussion regarding eriophyid mites and their effect on Scotch, Australian, red, and white pines. Symptoms of eriophyid mite injury on pines, biology and control methods, and monitoring are the topics the author focuses on.
Rates for Use of Fungicides and Bactericides in Various Amounts of Water
November 1, 1986
Growers guide for adjusting fungicide and bactericide rate use amounts in water for foliage plants. Author provides information on rates of use for many different fungicides and bactericides, specifically offering amounts for smaller rates of use.
Nutrient Analysis Problems in Douglas-fir Christmas Trees
April 1, 1985
The results of an Oregon State University affiliated two year study on the nutrient levels of Douglas-fir trees on Oregon Christmas tree plantations. Samples were taken from trees four and five years old in the Corvallis, OR and Willamette Valley areas.
Grovesiella Abieticola - Associated With a Canker Disease of True Firs
April 1, 1985
Grovesiella canker caused by the fungus Grovesiella abieticola was known to infect True fir in Northern California and B.C. Canada but was discovered on Noble fir Christmas tree farms in Western Oregon and Washington in the mid-1980's. Descriptions of the fungus and control methods are included in the article.
Swiss Needle Cast of Douglas-Fir
July 1, 1984
Swiss needle cast (Phaeocryptopus gaumanni) is a fungal disease of Douglas-fir trees, native to the North American pacific coast, which causes needle and color loss. Topics discussed include, winter-spring symptoms, summer-fall symptoms, and control.
Photoperiod - A Grower Management Tool for Controlling Plant Growth and Development
July 1, 1984
The use of photoperiod as a management tool to achieve optimal plant growth and development in a nursery or greenhouse environment. The information provided includes explantations of photoperiod; how it works, its importance to the grower, and the various effects of photoperiod manipulation.
Silver-Spotted Tiger Moths on Conifers
April 1, 1985
The silver-spotted tiger moth, Halisidota argentata, belongs to a family of stout bodied moths which can be pests of conifers, causing loss of harvestable trees for Christmas tree growers. Lifecycle, habitat, appearance, and control methods are briefly addressed.
New website focusing on species of Phytophthora launched by OSU Professor Jennifer Parke.
Forest Phytophthoras of the World is an international resource for the latest information on ten major species of Phytopthora.
Christmas Tree Economics: Establishing and Producing Douglas-Fir Christmas Trees in Western Oregon
September 1, 2009
A helpful publication for anyone considering growing Douglas-fir Christmas trees or for current growers. Covers cost of production and provides necessary tools for financial management and decision making.
Nutrient Analysis Problems in Douglas-Fir Christmas Trees
April 1, 1985
A review of data collected on Douglas Fir trees grown on Christmas tree plantations throughout the Willamette Valley. Samples were collected over a two year period and were analyzed for nitrogen, potassium, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper, boron and zinc.
Conifer Needle Rusts
December 1, 1975
The lifecycle of conifer needle rusts and their association with the Christmas tree industry are discussed by the Oregon State University affiliated authors. A table is provided of the most common needle rusts found in Oregon, the table includes the needle rust's hosts, and alternative hosts.
The Western Spruce Budworm Strikes Again!
November 1, 1981
The western spruce budworm (Choristoneura occidentalis Freeman), a native Oregon insect, is the subject of discussion. The author addresses the history of the pest in Oregon, life cycle, damage caused, controls, and plans to implement a spray program.
Spruce Spider Mite
October 1, 1986
An in depth look at a potentially serious pest of many conifers commonly grown in nurseries throughout the Pacific Northwest. Article profiles the host range, life cycle, damage, monitoring, cultural prevention and control as well as chemical controls.
Harvest and Planting Rates of Christmas Trees in Oregon
April 15, 1982
A discussion of the Christmas tree industry in the Pacific Northwest during the early 80's and its future economic outlook for growers. Oregon statistics of the era are listed including harvest numbers and estimated planting numbers.
Insect Problems on Narrow Leaf Evergreens
May 1, 1976
Several insect pests of narrow leaf evergreen trees are discussed in regard to hosts, lifecycle, the type of damage caused, and control methods for each of the pests. The insects addressed are; the Cooley Spruce Gall Aphid (Adelges cooleyi), pine needle scale (Phenacaspis pinifoliae) and the black pineleaf scale (Nuculaspis californica), and Douglas fir needle midge (Contarinia spp).
Pine Needle Sheath Mite Damages Ornamental Pines in the Pacific Northwest
November 1, 1981
The pine needle sheath mite, Trisetacus campnodus (Acarina: Eriophyidae), was reported to be causing damage first on plantation scotch pine. The mite was then discovered on two other pines, black pine (Pinus nigra), and cluster pine (Pinus pinaster).
Common Weeds in Oregon Container Crops
June 1, 2004
Includes identification and management information for eight weeds commonly found in Oregon container nurseries. Color photos and descriptions of weeds throughout their life cycle aid in identification. Presents control strategies for each weed.
White Pine Weevil
December 1, 1986
A close look at a serious pest of many conifers commonly grown in nurseries throughout the Pacific Northwest. Article examines the host range, life cycle, damage, monitoring, cultural prevention and control as well as chemical controls.
Post Harvest Handling of Douglas-Fir Christmas Trees
December 1, 1986
Research was conducted on moisture loss from Douglas-Fir Christmas trees at Oregon State University from 1981-85. The author discusses the objectives and results of the 4 year study and their effects on the Northwest Christmas tree industry.
Lophodermium Needle Cast
July 1, 1976
Research was conducted to gain incite into the fungal disease, Lophodermium needle cast, affecting Scotch pines in the Pacific Northwest. The most susceptible species were considered to be Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris), red pine (Pinus resinosa), and Monterey pine (Pinus radiata).

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