Depending on the weather the fields are cleared of stumps and branches (from the previous harvest). In 2023 this could be done in January which was unusual.

In the experimental areas cardboard and mulch are applied around the past years planting.

A very busy period in the fields, planting trees first. 850 transplants are planted every year making the farm production sustainable.

Apart from new transplants all of the trees are fertilized for the growing season. This helps with the health of the tree in all aspects growth, bud count and size, color and “keep ability” after harvest.

Start to cut the grass between the rows of trees if necessary.

Continue applying cardboard layers and mulch around transplants to help with weed control and water retention.

Watch the garlic push through the soil after spending the winter below ground.

Track down and cut any Witches Broom that may be in the trees. At this stage it is a beautiful fluorescent green which is easy to see. The brooms, although pretty in June, are needleless and ugly if left on the tree later in the season.

Picking cones off the trees is always fun, some trees having 100 - 300 trees each. Although cone picking is a lot of work, if left on the cones would drain the tree of valuable nutrients for foliage growth and can leave stick like shoots when the seed dispersal takes place.

Gather garlic scapes for sale and use. PYO garlic scapes may be available this year, 2023.

This is the time to shear the fir trees which are grown at South Farm. Each tree species takes specialized shearing to produce a full (densely foliaged) plant. On top of this no two trees of the same species are the same so it takes a life time to learn how to produce the perfect specimen.

That being said each tree will lovely but slightly different from it’s neighbor no matter what is done which is part of the joy of a real Christmas tree.

More mowing and now pulling some of the climbing weeds off the trees.

Taking inventory of saleable trees both for wholesale and CYO. Each tree is assessed for grade (color, density) and height. Each row of trees is walked and a colored tag tied onto each tree denoting is species and grade. A relatively slow process it is satisfying to see each tree reach it’ true potential.

Take orders for specialty wreaths (if you are interested in a large wreath e-mail now)

More mowing!

Check shearing of the tops of the whole plantation of trees. In this way any oversites from the previous shearing can be rectified.

Harvest, sort and clean garlic bulbs, with over 12 different varieties are available so there is something special for everyone. Eating and seed bulbs are available from August on until sold out. You can pick up South Farm garlic at the farm or at Apple Hill Farm near Concord NH. Call, email or PM on Facebook to order your specialty garlic.

Call and confirm wholesale orders. We have very few wholesale buyers as we strive to keep one or two buyers happy with our top quality trees.

October

More mowing, mulching check shearing.

Last mowing for the season after the first killing frost.

Plant and mulch garlic.

Celebrate “Fake Thanksgiving” with the family. Judy and I came up with Fake Thanksgiving before Friends Giving was popular as a way to celebrate with friends and family in a relaxed way because of our work commitments around the holidays.

Harvest trees for wholesale and open for CYO and wreath sales.

CYO and enjoy Christmas with the family.