In the perennial seasonal debate about the best kind of Solstice/Christmas tree we have been around the choices labyrinth. From the trees we harvested on our own land near Joussard, to ones we’ve purchased at the local Kinseman lot, to cheap ones from IKEA, through to a few years with a rummage sale artificial tree. Each option has usually conflicting eco and money encumbrances. Not to denigrate any other choice, but I think we have found a near perfect solution – at least for us.
Each year for the past five seasons I have harvested the crowns from a seven-cedar hedge that we planted 20 years ago. Standing precariously on our recycled wooden stepladder and armed with Susan’s Jr. Forest Warden pruning saw, I detach two of the tallest crowns. In the picture below you see in the middle ,Solstice Tree 2020, waiting for its big day inside, next year.
The individual tree crowns are a whee bit skinny, so I now harvest two crowns and wire them together.
Each year for the past 5 solstice seasons I have harvested the crowns from a 7 cedar hedge that we planted 20 years ago. Standing precariously on our recycled wooden stepladder and armed with Susan’s Jr. Forest Warden pruning saw, I detach two of the tallest crowns. In the picture below you see in the middle Solstice Tree 2020, waiting for its big day inside next year.The individual tree crowns are a whee bit skinny, so I now harvest two crowns and wire them together.Th
Despite the fact that it took Susan some time to get the bead garlands “just right”, even when I thought they were ‘good enough” two hours earlier, I think the tree looks great!
We don’t want the cedars to grow too tall, so as to block the solar panels and of course the zero cost appeals to my frugal nature. Add to that the zero transportation costs and the fun of growing your own, makes me think we have the perfect Solstice Tree.
Happy Solstice, Christmas and any other tradition that your are celebrating this season.
And of course, all the best in the New Year!