Weather data indicates Christmas tree growers will be plucking pine cones

By on May 14, 2013
Fraser fir cone (Credit: Teresa Sikora, via Wikimedia Commons)


Weather data collected at the Entrican Enviro-weather station indicates that Michigan will see an increase in pine cone production, according to Michigan State University Extension. The pine cones are especially detrimental to those who farm Fraser Firs to sell as Christmas trees.

Daily temperatures recorded in June and July 2012 averaged over 88 degrees Fahrenheit, including numerous highs in the 90s. At the same time, rainfall was relatively scarce. Experts say the conditions foretell an increase in cone production.

This year will likely see the increase, as cone buds – which form a year before the cones themselves – have been spotted in greater numbers. Those growing fir trees need to remove the cones to maintain marketability, which can be tedious and costly.

Image: Fraser fir cone (Credit: Teresa Sikora, via Wikimedia Commons)

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