Sure, it might be hot and muggy outside these days, but's it not too early to think about Christmas.

Especially if you are one of the more than 165 Christmas tree producers in Ohio.

Ohio State University Extension has released a new publication that offers pertinent information designed to help producers who are either contemplating entering the Christmas tree production industry or are experienced growers looking to boost their operations, says Cindy McCain, marketing and promotions manager for media distribution for OSU Extension.

Everything You Want To Know About Growing Christmas Trees

The Ohio Christmas Tree Producers Manual in as updated edition that contains much-needed information for the Christmas tree industry and can help both new and experienced growers who wish to improve marketing efforts, she said.

OSU Extension and Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center specialists are contributors to the new guide, ensuring that the information within the publications reflects current recommendations applicable to Ohio farming operations, she said.

Topics covered include:
• Marketing and business planning
• Soil basics
• Site layout and preparation
• Species and cultivars
• Planting
• Weed, pest and disease control
• Wildlife damage and management
• Shearing

Also included is an outline of business operation issues to consider, such as permits, regulations, record keeping, taxes and insurance. This glossy, 100-page book includes diagrams, illustrations and color photos. It may be ordered through OSU Extension county offices or online for $47.50 plus tax and shipping through OSU Extension's eStore at estore.osu-extension.org/productdetails.cfm?SKU=670NR.

The publication is among some 600 titles that are in stock at the eStore, at estore.osu-extension.org.

Source: OSU Extension