Rooted in tradition: The work behind growing PEI’s Christmas trees

It’s that time of year when many Islanders make the trek to find the perfect Christmas tree for their living room and begin decorating for the holidays. 

While choosing a tree may take only an afternoon, few realize the amount of work that goes into growing that holiday symbol.

Those who do understand are Christmas tree farmers. 

Trevor Campbell is one of them. He owns Tattrie’s Christmas Tree Farm in Montague, where he grows an estimated 70,000 trees.

Campbell says growing Christmas trees isn’t for the faint of heart.

“Not only do we sell around 600 trees a year, but we also plant about 1,200 saplings each spring,” he said.

In addition to planting, Campbell fertilizes the trees and trims every single one, a process that can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes per tree, depending on its size.

“Multiply that by several thousand and it takes some time, for sure.” 

Despite the effort, Campbell says the work is deeply fulfilling.

“I think, like a lot of farmers, I enjoy being outside. It’s rewarding to see what you can grow and share with the community.”

“It’s hard work, but it’s all worth it when December rolls around.”

Many people visit Tattrie’s farm in October to select their tree. The tree is tagged, and families return in December to take it home for the season.

“I have a lot of returning families and it’s really special to connect with so many people.”

Campbell also donates several trees each year to local community groups, including the Women’s Institute and Vernon River Church.

For Campbell, each tree represents more than a holiday tradition; it’s a season’s worth of care, patience, and pride. And as families gather around their trees this Christmas, they’re also sharing in the work and passion of the farmers who make those moments possible.