According to the 2021 Census of Agriculture (the most recent ag census), Canada had 1,364 farms growing Christmas trees for sale, covering 50,803 acres nationwide. Quebec led the way with 19,169 acres, and nearly 90% of that area was concentrated in the southeastern regions of Estrie and Chaudière-Appalaches.
When it comes to the number of farms, Ontario topped the list with 418, followed by British Columbia (276) and Quebec (257). Interestingly, Nova Scotia’s 213 farms outnumbered the combined total of all Prairie and Maritime provinces, which together had 199 farms.
Beyond farms, the industry is broader than just Christmas trees. As of June 2022, there were 1,895 business locations across Canada in the nursery and tree production sector—businesses primarily engaged in growing nursery products and trees, including Christmas trees.
More than 2 million are exported, primarily to the United States (97.2%), most to the following states: Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Michigan, North Carolina and Virginia. Nova Scotia donates an annual "Tree for Boston" -- a large Christmas tree sent to Boston, Massachusetts, as a thank you for aid after the 1917 Halifax Explosion.
If you are not a Christmas tree grower, but are a live Christmas lover, you are not alone. Many families enjoy the fresh scent and warm tradition that come with a real Christmas tree.
The first step is choosing the right place in your home. Keep your tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces and vents, which can dry it out faster. Make sure there is enough space for the height and width of your tree, and always measure your ceiling before you buy. A tree often looks smaller outdoors, so measuring helps prevent surprises once it is inside.
Freshness is important for a long lasting tree. If you cut your own tree, you know it is fresh. For pre-cut trees, gently pull on a branch. If needles fall off easily, choose another tree. If you are not ready to set up the tree right away, store it in a cool place with the cut end in water.