Propagation of Christmas trees

[3][citation needed] These trees have become popular because of their appearance, color, aroma, texture, or a combination of these properties.

The White fir is native to California and the Southwestern mountains of the U.S.[6][7] From these varied trees, Christmas tree nurseries must select varieties to propagate based on the climate of their region and the type of farms that they will be selling to.

These trees must be able to retain their color and their needles for long periods of time after they are cut.

Because many genetically different varieties are available, they can be grown in most of the temperate areas of the United States.

Spruce prefer cool climates, but they will tolerate warmer conditions than most fir trees.

Christmas tree propagation internationally has similar issues of geographical limitation, such as in Australia where the seasons for pruning and harvest differ from the northern hemisphere.

[8] Additionally, the environment of Australia favours the growth of Pinus radiata [9] which is no longer commonly grown in the northern hemisphere.

The specific variety that is selected must meet the needs of its customers and be capable of germinating and growing in the climate where the nursery is located.

The variety must also be able to thrive in the region where the tree farm that is purchasing the seedlings is located.

The commercial method typically yields a higher percentage of germination than artificially reproduced stratification.

In nature, this process typically occurs through the seed’s immersion in water during the spring melt of snow and ice.

This can be accomplished by placing a thick layer of mulch over the seeded tree bed and erecting a canopy over it to reduce direct sunlight.

[11] The selection of the cuttings that are taken is critical to ensure successful rooting and proper growth habits.

Choosing upright shoots ensures apical dominance and upward growth and reduces the possibility of the tree growing laterally like a bush.

[12] Studies have also shown that misting at 7- to 10-minute intervals increases the amount of successful root development in Leyland cypress cuttings.