What makes Christmas trees thrive in western North Carolina?

It’s now been more than five weeks since Helene devastated parts of western North Carolina. As recovery continues, many continue to ask the question, “how can we help?”

Consider Western NC when buying a tree this year

As we get closer to the holiday season, you may want to consider getting a Christmas tree from the farms in the western part of the state.

The White House will be home to a tree grown in Avery County at Cartner Farms this year.

In a story previously aired on WRAL, Sam Cartner told us, “Tourism is the number two income producer in these counties.”

He also went on to estimate that thousands of his farm’s trees were damaged by mudslides during Helene. That would impact harvest years down the road.

Avery County ranked #4 for Christmas tree production in the United States, with Ashe County ranking #1. North Carolina grows and sells millions of Christmas trees each year. You can click here to see a map of where Christmas trees grow in the United States.

Why trees thrive in Western North Carolina

This might surprise you, but Western North Carolina is usually a top producer in the country for Christmas trees. A recent report says that 22% of the U.S.’ natural Christmas trees come from this part of the state.

Ashe, Avery and Alleghany Counties are usually in the top-10 counties for production each year.

Firs, especially, thrive in the higher elevations, according to the College of Environmental Sciences at NC State.

This particular species of tree can be cultivated at elevations of 2,500 feet or higher, which is why Ashe, Watauga, Avery and Alleghany Counties are such great spots.

Higher elevations tend to avoid summer heat. They also tend to avoid drought, since air rises, condenses and rains out more often near the mountains.

The lack of intense heat also means fewer pests that could kill off these trees.

However, a team of researchers at NC State says that a warming climate could lead to more pests that would kill off Christmas trees. They’re trying to find ways for these species to adapt.

If you wind up getting a tree from Western North Carolina, send us a picture and info on where you got it from to WRAL Weather Watchers. We’ll be sure to feature it on air and/or online.