Michigan State University Extension released an update on May 1 regarding the current conditions and management practices for Christmas tree farms in Michigan. The report covers recent weather trends, crop development, pest updates, and available resources for growers.
The information is important for growers as changing weather patterns have brought challenges to the industry. Throughout April, Michigan experienced active weather with strong storms, high rainfall, and above-average temperatures. Growing degree day accumulations are now about two weeks ahead of normal in many areas.
According to the update, cooler than normal temperatures and below average precipitation are expected to continue into mid-May. Several nights of frost have occurred recently; while trees that have already broken bud may be at risk of damage from these events, buds that are only swollen are less likely to be affected. The report notes there is little that growers can do to prevent late frost damage except by avoiding early bud breaking species.
Tree development varies depending on species and location. For example, cone development has been observed in Fraser firs near Grand Rapids. While cone removal represents a significant cost for growers each year, recent frost events may help reduce this burden by damaging or killing cones naturally.
Spring herbicide applications should ideally be completed while trees remain dormant. Growers who have not yet applied systemic herbicides such as glyphosate should exercise caution because some buds may already be vulnerable to injury at this stage of development due to increased movement of chemicals throughout the plant.
Pest management remains a priority as well. Spongy moth treatment windows have opened in southern Michigan but not yet in northern counties; spray application is required under federal quarantine regulations for this pest. Recent scouting reports show low levels of spruce spider mite activity; biweekly monitoring is recommended by Michigan State University Extension so treatments can be timed appropriately based on population levels.
Growers using MSU Enviroweather now have access to a mobile app designed for easier field use and more convenient access to weather data.
Michigan State University Extension Agriculture addresses challenges related to food systems, health issues, and environmental sustainability through education programs, research projects, and outreach efforts according to the official website. Its facilities include greenhouses, organic farms, horticultural gardens, research centers across all counties in Michigan according to the official website, as well as collaborations with AgBioResearch scientists from eight university colleges according to the official website.
In fall 2021 there were 3,735 students enrolled across undergraduate through certificate programs according to the official website. The extension aims “to foster a healthy world by educating students for a complex planet” while advancing knowledge and promoting sustainable agriculture according to the official website.
