The proper choice of a species or group of species to plant is of utmost importance. Unless a fitting choice is made, a substantial loss of time and money can result. A number of considerations may influence this choice: 1) consumer preference, 2) characteristics of different species, 3) characteristics of lands to be planted and growing requirements of the different species, 4) presence or absence of possible damaging agents or influences and 5) proximity to markets, etc.
Consumer preferences can vary considerably from one area to another and may be influenced by the type of tree used previously. Before plantation grown trees became generally available in Ohio, native species such as white pine were often used for Christmas trees in central and northern parts of the state, while eastern red cedar and Virginia pine were common in warmer areas. In addition, large numbers of balsam fir and white and black spruce were imported from Canada for sale in Ohio. As large quantities of plantation grown trees became more available, many of these "traditional" preferences were replaced. More emphasis has recently been placed on characteristics of different introduced and native species available from plantations. Foliage color, needle length, needle retention, stem straightness, shape and density are among the important factors influencing one's final choice of a Christmas tree.
Choosing a species that will survive and grow well on a particular area is extremely important and is often a very difficult decision for the Christmas tree grower to make. The combination of soil conditions, topographic factors, climatic factors and biotic agencies prevailing in an area constitute the site factors of that area. The combination of these factors, along with a species' ecological requirements, must be carefully considered in order to ensure successful establishment, survival and growth. In Ohio, evaluation of site factors in relation to ecological requirements of a species can be particularly difficult because of variations in soil, topographic and climatic conditions associated with changes in latitude, as well as large variations in soil] conditions in different parts of the state. The guides in the section "Determination of Site Productivity" are provided to assist in this determination. Christmas tree growers are also urged to seek professional advice from service and consulting foresters, Soil Conservation Service personnel or country agricultural extension agents. Excellent help can also sometimes be obtained by visiting Christmas tree farms and talking with growers about their experiences with different species on different sites.
The presence or absence of possible damaging agent; should also be considered in choosing a species to plan! in an area. These considerations should include not only effects of insects and diseases, but also such factors as winter hardiness, susceptibility to spring frost damage and ice and snow breakage and sensitivity tic air pollutants.
In the following text, characteristics, site require meets and possible damaging agents are discussed in relation to the major species recommended for Christmas tree planting in Ohio.