Lessons From A Christmas Tree Farm

When he first envisioned becoming a farmer, author Emmet Van Driesche never imagined his main crop would be Christmas trees, nor that such a tree farm could be more of a managed forest than the conventional grid of perfectly sheared trees. Carving Out a Living on the Land tells the story of how Van Driesche navigated changing life circumstances, took advantage of unexpected opportunities, and leveraged new and old skills to piece together an economically viable living, while at the same time respecting the land's complex ecological relationships. From spoon carving to scything, coppicing to wreath-making, Carving Out a Living on the Land proves that you don't need acres of expensive bottomland to start your land-based venture, but rather the creativity and vision to see what might be done with that rocky section or ditch or patch of trees too small to log. You can lease instead of buy; build flexible, temporary structures rather than sink money into permanent ones; and take over an existing operation rather than start from scratch. What matters are your unique circumstances, talents, and interests, which when combined with what the land is capable of producing, can create a fulfilling and meaningful farming life.

Pastor and writer Michael D. Kurtz reflects upon lessons learned from growing Christmas trees for nearly twenty years and applies these lessons to everyday faith and living in "LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM." In the prologue Kurtz writes:

Pastor and writer Michael D. Kurtz reflects upon lessons learned from growing Christmas trees for nearly twenty years and applies these lessons to everyday faith and living in LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM. In the prologue Kurtz writes: "The instructions from God's creation are pronounced and profound if we will open our eyes, minds, and hearts to the inherent lessons. Growing Christmas trees, like growing in the Christian faith, is neither quick nor easy. There is required of us patience, diligence, and hard work. And, above all, divine grace." Divided into thirty chapters LESSONS is easily adaptable to a monthly devotional resource, by simply reading a chapter per day for one month. Or, LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM is ideal for small groups and Sunday School classes. Each chapter is designed around one theme with a section entitled "Questions and Reflections" at the conclusion of every chapter suitable for discussion. In LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM the reader will discover a wealth of biblical and practical wisdom for living. As you read this engaging volume you will not only be entertained, you will also be encouraged and inspired in your spiritual journey.

Wilma decides to plant Christmas trees with the help of her young neighbor, Parker.

This charming tale of an overgrown pine always being passed by for Christmas, and what his woodland friends do to help him, is sure to become a Christmas classic. With delightful illustrations by wildlife artist Michael Monroe and enchanting text from Colleen Monroe, the birds, deer and squirrel of this story help make their special friend's wish come true.

Best-selling author Lewis Hill shares his decades of experience in this comprehensive guide to growing and selling Christmas trees, wreaths, and holiday greens. You'll discover everything you need to know to make your business thrive!

When he first envisioned becoming a farmer, author Emmet Van Driesche never imagined his main crop would be Christmas trees, nor that such a tree farm could be more of a managed forest than the conventional grid of perfectly sheared trees. Carving Out a Living on the Land tells the story of how Van Driesche navigated changing life circumstances, took advantage of unexpected opportunities, and leveraged new and old skills to piece together an economically viable living, while at the same time respecting the land’s complex ecological relationships. From spoon carving to scything, coppicing to wreath-making, Carving Out a Living on the Land proves that you don’t need acres of expensive bottomland to start your land-based venture, but rather the creativity and vision to see what might be done with that rocky section or ditch or patch of trees too small to log. You can lease instead of buy; build flexible, temporary structures rather than sink money into permanent ones; and take over an existing operation rather than start from scratch. What matters are your unique circumstances, talents, and interests, which when combined with what the land is capable of producing, can create a fulfilling and meaningful farming life.

Growing beautiful Christmas trees is a great way to generate off-season farm income and make better use of your land. From selecting a site and planting the right species to marketing and selling trees, this Storey BASICS® guide shows you how to build and maintain your own small tree nursery. Including handy tips for making handcrafted kissing balls and holiday wreaths, Growing Christmas Trees covers everything you need to know to successfully cultivate stunning evergreens that will provide income and bring holiday cheer.