Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast—where we’re all about designing, building, and growing a smarter garden that works!I’m your host, Craig McManus, and today we’re diving into a timeless holiday tradition: the Christmas tree. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’re sure to be inspired by the fascinating insights of today’s guest.Joining me is Dr. Mel Koelling, a nationally recognized authority in the Christmas tree industry.Dr. Mel, alongside his wife Lori, owns and operates Tannenbaum Farms (https://www.tannenbaumfarm.com/) in central Michigan, where they’ve been growing thousands of stunning Christmas trees every year since 1977.What started as a way to connect his professional forestry expertise to the family goal of funding their children’s college education. Tannenbaum Farms (https://www.tannenbaumfarm.com/) has flourished into a sprawling 100-acre operation, rooted in tradition and excellence.Did you know it can take over eight years to grow the perfect Christmas tree? As Dr. Mel will tell you, there’s no off-season on a Christmas tree farm!Dr. Mel spent over 35 years teaching forestry at Michigan State University (https://www.canr.msu.edu/for/), shaping the next generation of experts in his field. His depth of knowledge and passion for evergreens is unmatched.In this episode, we’ll trace the fascinating history of Christmas trees, from ancient winter celebrations to the centerpiece of modern holiday cheer.Dr. Mel shares the evolution of the industry, the challenges of growing premium trees, and insider tips on selecting and caring for a live tree to keep your holidays merry and bright.Plus, we’ll explore the environmental benefits of natural trees and why preserving family traditions is more important than ever.It’s almost time to deck the halls so start thinking about your Christmas tree. Dr. Mel brings decades of expertise straight from the farm to your holiday traditions.From selecting the perfect tree to understanding the care it takes to grow one, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for this beloved symbol of the season. “It’s Christmas keep it real” Win a Box of Salt HayHow would you like to win a box of Salt Hay? It is simple to enter. We’ll randomly pull a name from all the new November 2024 subscribers to our “Good to Know Newsletter”.Go to TheGardenQuestion.com and subscribe on any episode page. Be a new subscriber in the month of November 2024 and you could win a box of Salt Hay. (https://mcplants.com/subscribe-to-the-good-to-know-newslettertter/)Chapter Timeline00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast00:24 Meet Dr. Mel Kelling: Christmas Tree Expert01:20 The History of Christmas Trees06:30 The Christmas Tree Tradition in America08:13 Personal Christmas Tree Stories11:34 Starting a Christmas Tree Farm14:34 Challenges in Christmas Tree Farming17:43 Evolution of the Christmas Tree Industry26:57 Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree30:27 Tree Care After Purchase32:10 Watering Tips and Tools32:55 Tree Placement and Maintenance33:26 Disposing of Your Tree35:16 Tree Shortage Reality35:51 Heartwarming Tree Stories40:33 Environmental Benefits of Real Trees49:45 Challenges and Mistakes in Tree Growing52:59 Future of Real Christmas Trees54:42 Conclusion and Podcast Outro