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Rooted in Tradition: How Michigan’s Christmas tree industry is keeping the holiday spirit alive

By Kyle Kaminski

December 10, 2024

Family farms—and traditions—help Michigan produce more Christmas trees than almost every other state in the country. 

GOBLES—Under a clear December sky, families flocked to Wahmhoff Farms Nursery in Gobles last weekend to choose their perfect Christmas tree. 

Kids clutched hot cocoa while parents carried saws, ready to make their pick from acres of evergreens. A petting zoo and horse-drawn wagon added to the festive atmosphere, while Santa Claus himself even stopped by to pose for photos.

For many Michiganders, this annual pilgrimage to cut down their Christmas tree is more than just a seasonal errand—it’s a cherished tradition. And behind the festivities lies a deep-rooted industry that has been a cornerstone of Michigan’s agricultural landscape for decades.

Among those who’ve seen this industry grow and evolve is Dan Wahmhoff, co-owner of Wahmhoff Farms, a family operation that has been selling Christmas trees since the 1950s.

For him, this time of year is all about connecting with the generations of families who’ve made the farm a part of their holiday season—and keeping the ritual alive for decades to come.

“It’s been really fun to see these second, third, even fourth generations coming out here,” Wahmhoff told The ‘Gander. “I’ve got some customers who’ve been buying trees from us for about 50 years now, and now they’re bringing their grandkids to carry on the tradition.”

Michigan: A Christmas Tree Powerhouse

The state of Michigan ranks third in the nation for Christmas tree production—with local farms now supplying about 2 million trees annually to homes across the country. And with over 500 tree farms dotting the state, the industry generates an estimated $40 million in annual revenue.

Rooted in Tradition: How Michigan's Christmas tree industry is keeping the holiday spirit alive

Kyle Kaminski/The ‘Gander Newsroom

Missaukee County, home to Dutchman Tree Farms in Manton, leads the state in Christmas tree production. Dutchman is Michigan’s largest tree farm, shipping over half a million trees annually. 

But for Dutchman Nursery Manager Scott Powell, the farm’s legacy is about more than numbers.

“This is a third-generation business,” Powell told The ‘Gander last week. “It all started in 1972, and my father-in-law was able to survive the ups and downs of the industry by diversifying and focusing on relationships. Those relationships stretch across states and even decades.”

Powell didn’t always work in agriculture. After spending his 20s in higher education administration, he dropped out of a doctoral program to join the farm and hasn’t looked back. 

“It’s a heritage,” Powell explained. “But it’s also about maintaining relationships. … Some relationships are so close that our clients reach out during hard times, asking for prayers or support. That’s what makes it special—living life alongside people, even if they’re states away.”

Dan and his brother Ken Wahmhoff have run their family’s operation since 1996 and today, they’re among Michigan’s top Christmas tree producers, shipping up to 80,000 trees annually and welcoming thousands of families to their choose-and-cut farm.

“We’ve been doing choose-and-cut for decades, but it’s become a much bigger part of our business over the years,” Dan Wahmhoff said. “We’ve got Santa visits, a petting zoo, wagon rides, and even food trucks. It’s about making memories and creating a family tradition.”

Evolving Traditions

The Christmas tree industry in Michigan is steeped in tradition, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. Over the years, the landscape of tree farming has shifted dramatically. 

The 2008 financial crisis led to the closure of many wholesale farms across the state, but a steady rise in smaller, choose-and-cut operations has breathed new life into the industry.

“Families are looking for more than just a tree—they want an experience,” Wahmhoff explained. “Whether it’s wagon rides, Santa visits, or just the joy of picking the perfect tree with your kids, it’s become a way for people to slow down and reconnect during the holidays.”

Rooted in Tradition: How Michigan's Christmas tree industry is keeping the holiday spirit alive

Kyle Kaminski/The ‘Gander Newsroom

This trend isn’t unique to Wahmhoff Farms. Across Michigan, more farms are embracing the choose-and-cut model, offering activities like sleigh rides, bonfires, and gift shops to create a more immersive holiday experience, according to the Michigan Christmas Tree Association.

The sale of wreaths, cut boughs, garland, and other fresh greenery products has also generated about $5 million in annual sales for tree farmers who are willing to diversify their operations.

“It takes 8 to 10 years for your first harvest, so not a quick return on your investment, and that tends to scare some people away,” said Michigan Christmas Tree Association Director Amy Start. “However, once you do harvest, it is a great return and a wonderful business to be in.”

Labor shortages have also pushed many Michigan farms, including Wahmhoff’s, to rely on H-2A migrant workers for harvest. And with climate change leading to more extreme weather events across the country, farmers have been forced to make changes to their growing practices.

“We’re irrigating more and planting earlier in the year,” Powell said. “You’re always trying to anticipate trends and adjust accordingly. … It’s not an easy business, but it’s a rewarding one.”

Why Michigan Trees Stand Out

One of the reasons Michigan remains a powerhouse in the Christmas tree industry is its diverse climate and soil, which allow farmers to grow a variety of trees. From Scotch Pine to Fraser fir—the reigning favorite among consumers—Michigan growers have perfected their craft.

“Michigan can grow more varieties,” Powell said. “Our sandy soils and moderate climate are also perfect for producing these strong, healthy trees that stand out on the national market.”

Fraser fir, known for its softer needles, stronger branches, and longer shelf life, remains the top choice for consumers today. But growers like Dutchman Tree Farms are always keeping an eye out for newer varieties like Nordmann and Turkish fir to meet ever-evolving market demands.

Rooted in Tradition: How Michigan's Christmas tree industry is keeping the holiday spirit alive

Courtesy/Purdue University

Sustainability at the Heart of Tree Farming

Sustainability is also key for the Christmas tree business. Most farms operate with a zero-waste philosophy—using unsellable trees for wreaths and composting waste to enrich their soil.

“At Dutchman, we grind any unsellable trees into compost and spread it back onto our soil,” Powell said. “That’s all part of ensuring the land stays productive for future generations.”

Wahmhoff Farms takes a similar approach, practicing integrated pest management techniques to help minimize chemical use—and even installing solar panels to offset energy needs.

“Christmas trees are one of the most sustainable crops you can grow,” Wahmhoff said. “They provide oxygen, support wildlife, and when the season is over, they’re fully biodegradable.”

Magic of the Season

For farmers like Powell and Wahmhoff, the Christmas tree business is about more than economics or even the trees themselves. It’s about spreading joy and the reason for the season.

Rooted in Tradition: How Michigan's Christmas tree industry is keeping the holiday spirit alive

Kyle Kaminski/The ‘Gander Newsroom

“It’s more than just having a Christmas tree in your living room,” Powell said. “We’re part of making memories with the family. It’s a symbol of hope and togetherness. And it’s an agricultural commodity that celebrates the greatest thing of all, and that’s the birth of Jesus Christ.”

Wahmhoff shares a similar sentiment. For him, the magic of the season lies in the generations of families who return year after year. And he hopes Christmas trees from his farm will serve as more than just a seasonal decoration—but as a symbol of love, unity, and tradition.

“We’re here to celebrate Christ’s birth,” he said. “The tree is a reminder of that. It’s about bringing joy to families and helping them create memories they’ll cherish for a lifetime.”

READ MORE: 6 best cut-your-own Christmas tree farms in Michigan

For the latest Michigan news, follow The ‘Gander on Twitter.

Follow Political Correspondent Kyle Kaminski here.

Author

  • Kyle Kaminski

    Kyle Kaminski is an award-winning investigative journalist with more than a decade of experience covering news across Michigan. Prior to joining The ‘Gander, Kyle worked as the managing editor at City Pulse in Lansing and as a reporter for the Traverse City Record-Eagle.

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