Millions of Christmas trees grow in North Carolina every year. Here’s why the weather makes all the difference.
ASHE COUNTY, N.C. — Here in North Carolina, we love our mountains, our beaches and yes … even our Christmas trees. But did you know North Carolina is also really good at growing Christmas trees? Let’s raise your Weather IQ.
4 million reasons to celebrate
Each year, North Carolina grows around 4 million Christmas trees, making it the second-largest producer in the country. Oregon takes the top spot, producing around 5 million trees each year in the heart of the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
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Here’s a fun twist — Ashe County alone is the largest Christmas tree–producing county in the United States, growing about 2 million trees annually.
Clearly, North Carolina isn’t just keeping up with the competition — it’s a major player in America’s holiday tree industry.
What makes North Carolina so perfect for Christmas trees?
The secret comes down to topography, climate, and weather.
In western North Carolina, Christmas trees thrive at elevations between 3,000 and 6,000 feet, a sweet spot found throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.
And our weather plays a huge role. The cool, moist climate, combined with mild summers and moderate winters create ideal conditions for high-quality, long-lasting trees.
Our mountains even act like a natural irrigation system: Moist air rises, condenses, and falls as rain, giving trees a steady water supply. Many are trees are planted on slopes, which helps prevent flooding and improve drainage which is something flatter states often struggle with.
The star of the show: Fraser Firs
The Fraser Fir is the most popular Christmas tree in America — and it’s native to North Carolina! These trees make up over 90% of all Christmas trees grown in the state.
North Carolina Fraser Firs have even been chosen as the official White House Christmas Tree multiple times. Talk about holiday fame!
The bottom line
Chances are, if you have a real tree in your living room this holiday season, it probably has roots right here in North Carolina. Happy holidays!
Contact Majestic Storm at majesticstorm@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.