Organic Christmas Trees...Start a New Green Tradition

Organic Christmas trees? There are three local growers who are bringing sustainable farming to new heights.

There are only about six organic Christmas tree farmers registered in the state of California and we have three farms that carry organic trees right here in Gold Country.

In Sacramento County, growers used the insecticide dimethoate, one in a class of insecticides known as organophosphates, which target the nervous system and can harm humans, given sufficient exposure; and esfenvalerate, a pyrethroid that’s potentially toxic to aquatic organisms. They also used three kinds of herbicides, including glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup (According to Edie Lau from OGC.org). Conventional tree farmers do point out that they do not use pesticides unless they are needed and many trees are never sprayed. What sets organic farmers apart is they work hard to create an eco system that fights pests and other issues with natural methods. This includes cover crops and other farming methods.

We all know that supporting local farmers is key to creating a sustainable farming base in our community...now we can go one step farther and make our holidays a little greener this year.

Billy's Farm Fresh Christmas Trees

8430 Dillard Road
Wilton
916-987-8354
Open weekends 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Organic certified from CCOF #YO310-produce, fruits and vegetables.
Hay rides, small farm animals and Christmas crafts.

Fudge Factory Farm
2860 High Hill Road
Placerville
866-383-4348
Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Dec. 14.
Note: The trees are grown organically but have not yet been certified.

With 65 different flavors of fudge, fresh baked cookies, homemade hot fudge and caramel sundaes, fresh peanut brittle and English toffee, a wide variety of chocolates and over 15 different kinds of candy coated apples.

Honey Bear Ranch
2826 Barkley Road
Camino
530-644-3934
Note: Tree farm is closed this season for replanting and maintenance. The ranch is still open for local produce, bakery items, food, candy, crafts, live music and more!