Roger Unangst is driving as Jon Derhammer and Tori Unangst plant the trees.
This year (2024) we planted approximately 11,500 trees which will be ready between 2032-2034. When choosing what trees to plant, one can not just choose a tree they think is nice looking and plant it. A tree must be carefully selected. What type of soil will the tree be planted in? Is it full of clay, shale, sand, etc? What is the pH of the soil? Soil tends to vary and change greatly on a plot of land. Most individuals do not consider these issues when trying to decide what trees to plant on their properties. If you build a new home it is important to have your soil tested before choosing what trees to plant. One can not assume that a tree they had planted at one home will also grow well at a new location. Soil is all about CHEMISTRY. Just like our bodies, trees need a nutrient filled environment in order to thrive; therefore, we recommend that you consult a professional or at least take soil samples before deciding what trees to plant on your property. If you do not want to consult a professional it would be a wonderful practice to at least take soil samples to find out what trees will thrive in your yard.
How does Unangst Tree Farms choose what trees to plant? First, we take annual soil samples. Secondly, we try to determine what types of trees will be in demand when the trees are sold. This can be a little difficult since the trees will be in the soil for 7-10 years. Another important factor in tree planting is needle retention. Spruce trees do not have a very good needle retention (approx 2 weeks); therefore, we choose not to plant many (A few Blue Spruce) of these types of trees. The number one selling Christmas tree is the Douglas Fir, but did you know there are at least five sub-species of Douglas Fir trees? Each sub-species has physical traits that are different. The sub-species that are grown in Michigan or Oregon are not the same sub-species grown in Pennsylvania. This is due to different environmental conditions. Fraser Fir is a close second place in popularity and continues to grow in popularity due to its wonderful needle retention and sturdy branches for heavier ornaments. Tree planting isn't just about planting trees in the ground. It's an intricate chemical process.
