What it Takes to Raise a Beautiful Murray Cypress Christmas Tree in Georgia
Selecting the Ideal Location
We realized The first step to growing healthy Murray Cypress trees is choosing the right location. These trees thrive in full sunlight, requiring a minimum of 6-8 hours of sun each day. They prefer well-drained soil, with sandy loam being the ideal choice. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas, as these trees are susceptible to root rot.
Planting Our Trees
Timing is key when planting Murray Cypress trees. Since we have a short spring in Georgia, we typically plant in late winter/ early spring. This allows the roots to be established before the extreme heat or cold. Space is also important in the health of the tree. We space our trees about 6-8 feet apart to ensure they have room to grow and develop into well-shaped Christmas trees. This helps naturally protect against pests and rot as well.
Watering for Growth
Proper watering is crucial, especially during the first year when our trees are establishing their root systems. Regular watering during dry periods is also essential. As the trees mature, we can reduce watering, but we regularly check the trees and ensure watering during natural dry spells. Careful monitoring also allows us to minimize the risk of overwatering, since it can lead to root rot.
Pruning and Shaping
In the first year, minimal pruning is needed— we focus on allowing the tree to establish itself. Starting in the second year, we regularly begin shaping the tree into the classic conical form that defines a perfect Christmas tree. Annual pruning is essential to remove competing leaders and trim lateral branches, encouraging dense, even growth and maintaining a single central leader.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Murray Cypress trees in Georgia can be affected by issues like Seiridium canker, bagworms, and spider mites. We try and prevent these problems by keeping the area around each tree clean and ensuring proper spacing and air circulation. Every morning, we go through the groves, regularly monitoring and taking prompt action if we notice any signs of pests or diseases.
Harvesting Your Christmas Trees
November and December are the ideal times to harvest your trees. We will often see families come out in early November to select and mark their tree. We do allow for tree reservations and encourage this for the widest selection.
We provide an electric saw and cart for each family to help with cutting down their tree. We recommend using this sharp saw to make a clean cut at the base, ensuring the tree will absorb water effectively when displayed.
Caring for Harvested Trees
To keep your Christmas trees fresh and vibrant, make sure they stay hydrated until they’re ready to be sold or displayed. A well-hydrated tree will stay green and beautiful throughout the holiday season. Fortunately, Murray Cypress always stay green, even when they are dry, so our trees last well into January.
Ready to Select Your Tree?
Growing Murray Cypress Christmas trees in Georgia has been such a rewarding venture. Watching the smiles on the faces of each family member brings us so much joy. Reach out to us to select the perfect tree for your family today!