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Whether fresh-cut evergreen or potted, Christmas trees are deeply woven into the fabric of holiday traditions. As the world celebrates Christmas, the beloved symbol of the season faces growing threats that could impact their availability, quality, and overall survival with the effects of climate change intensifying .
Rising Temperatures and Altered Growing Seasons
One of the toughest challenges posed by climate change is the rise in global temperatures. Christmas trees, especially those grown in colder climates, such as Norway Spruce, Fraser Fir, and Douglas Fir, depend on specific temperature ranges and predictable seasonal patterns. Warmer winters and earlier springs are altering these growing conditions, leading to disruptions in the timing of tree growth.
Trees need a consistent cold period to undergo dormancy, which is crucial for their growth cycle. Without this cold period, trees can experience stunted growth, shorter needles, and a weaker structure. Furthermore, warmer temperatures lead to earlier budding and growing seasons, which can result in trees being less robust by the time they are ready for harvest, impacting their appearance and overall quality.
Increased Risk of Pests and Diseases
Climate change is also contributing to the spread of pests and diseases that affect Christmas trees. Warmer temperatures and milder winters create more favorable conditions for insects, fungi, and bacteria that can destroy tree farms. An example is the pine beetle, which has historically been kept in check by cold winters, and has been thriving in many areas due to the milder conditions. The beetles bore into tree trunks, weakening the trees and making them susceptible to further damage.
Additionally, the spread of diseases like root rot and needle blight, which are exacerbated by higher humidity and changing rainfall patterns, poses a significant threat to Christmas tree populations. Tree farmers are increasingly having to use chemical treatments to combat these threats. The environmental impact of such practices is questionable.
Extreme Weather Events and Droughts
Climate change is also contributing to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. Droughts, floods, and storms have become more common in regions that traditionally grow Christmas trees. These extreme events can stress the trees, making them more vulnerable to disease and pests, and in some cases, lead to crop loss. For instance, drought conditions over a long period can stunt tree growth, causing smaller, less desirable trees that fail to meet the standards of consumers.
Moreover, floods and heavy rainfall can disrupt the delicate balance needed for tree growth, eroding soil and flooding tree roots, which can lead to root rot and other issues. The unpredictability of weather patterns also makes it harder for tree farmers to plan effectively for the future, leading to disruptions in the supply chain.
Shortages and Price Increases
The cumulative effects of climate change on Christmas tree farming—such as stunted growth, higher pest pressures, and increased vulnerability to extreme weather—are beginning to show up in the marketplace. In many regions, there have been reports of lower tree yields, which in turn leads to shortages of desirable species. This has already been reflected in rising prices for Christmas trees in recent years.
For example, in 2021 and 2022, many tree farms in North America and Europe faced supply shortages due to the combination of a tree-growing cycle that takes years to complete and the growing unpredictability of climate conditions. As the availability of Christmas trees declines, prices have surged, making it more expensive for families to continue the tradition of buying a real tree.
Adaptation and Solutions
In response to these challenges, some Christmas tree farmers are exploring ways to adapt to the changing climate. Some are experimenting with different species that are more resilient to heat and pests. Others are adopting more sustainable farming practices, such as using organic methods to manage pests or employing water-saving irrigation systems to counteract the effects of droughts.
Scientists are researching the genetic makeup of Christmas trees to develop strains that are more resistant to climate-related stressors, such as heat, drought, and pests. These efforts offer some hope for the future of Christmas tree farming but it is still quite early to presume they will work.
Another potential solution is the promotion of artificial Christmas trees, which could reduce the environmental impact of tree farming. However, many people still prefer the traditional charm of a real tree, with its unique scent and natural beauty. The long-term challenge will be balancing the desire for this holiday tradition with the need to mitigate the environmental impacts of climate change.
The Future of Christmas Trees
The impact of climate change on Christmas trees is just one example of how our changing planet is affecting both the environment and the traditions we hold dear. As global temperatures continue to rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, we will need to reconsider how we grow, harvest, and enjoy Christmas trees in the future.
For now, families who bought real trees this holiday season have borne the brunt of shortages leading to higher prices. Supporting sustainable tree farming practices and considering alternatives, such as planting their own trees or opting for a potted tree, are small but impactful steps that can help ensure this tradition continues for generations to come.
References:
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1524&context=hcoltheses
https://nca2023.globalchange.gov/chapter/7/#key-message-1
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/climate-change-christmas-trees-farming-industry-adapt
Image: Photo by Dominika Gregušová
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