Journal of NACAA

Effect of Varying Nitrogen Rates on Southeastern Christmas Trees

ISSN 2158-9429

Volume 18, Issue 2 - December 2025

Editor: Bindu Poudel-Ward

Abstract

Real Christmas tree sales have increased recently with 26.2 million trees sold in 2019. As research hasn’t always been applicable to southeastern states, the Southern Christmas Tree Association requested tree species and growing conditions research. Four tree species treated with varying nitrogen rates were grown from 2021 to 2024. Data showed final stem height and diameter at the 1.0x (50 pounds N/acre) rate were significantly more productive in Leyland Cypress and Arizona Cypress varieties. The 0.25x rate was the most productive in cedar trees. This provides a recommended fertility base rate for these species in southern states.

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