As climate warms, that perfect Christmas tree may depend on growers’ ability to adapt

“As global temperatures continue to rise, the future of the beloved Christmas tree may hinge on the adaptability of tree growers and breeders like Jim Rockis, who cultivate these iconic evergreens. Rockis, based in West Virginia and Pennsylvania, often finds himself growing trees outside their natural habitat, where warmer and wetter soil conditions prevail. Unfortunately, these conditions are conducive to a notorious fungal disease known as Phytophthora root rot, which poses a significant threat to young saplings, causing their needles to wither and turn burnt orange.

This issue, though not immediately noticeable to consumers, is of paramount importance because the trees being nurtured today are the cherished holiday centerpieces of tomorrow. To address this challenge, experts like Gary Chastagner, a Washington State University professor aptly nicknamed “Dr. Christmas Tree” for his extensive work with festive tree species, are collaborating with breeders such as Rockis. They are exploring whether species from different regions, like the Turkish fir, are better suited to withstand the changing climate conditions.

Over the past two years, the Pacific Northwest has witnessed alarming fungal disease outbreaks among evergreens, raising concerns about the impact of shifting soil temperatures and moisture levels. Some Phytophthora strains, adapted to warmer soil, may become more aggressive in attacking trees. Researchers led by Chastagner are diligently investigating the causes of these outbreaks and whether they signal a troubling trend for the future.

However, some scientists caution that there is insufficient research on the implications of warming soil temperatures for Christmas trees and other crops, especially trees. A European study published in the journal Nature Climate Change revealed that soil heat extremes are rising at a faster rate than air temperature extremes, potentially affecting the health of various ecosystems and agricultural areas. These changing soil conditions may also favor pests and diseases, making tree cultivation increasingly challenging over time.

Moreover, alterations in soil conditions can have ramifications for soil carbon storage, a crucial aspect of climate change mitigation. Warmer soil temperatures can diminish long-term carbon storage capacity due to the influence on underground microbial activity. This unsettling phenomenon highlights the need for more extensive research on the topic.

Melissa Widhalm, an associate director and regional climatologist at Purdue University’s Midwestern Regional Climate Center, acknowledges the difficulty in obtaining sufficient data on soil temperature changes due to limited historical records. She emphasizes the significance of studies like the one conducted in Europe, which combined on-ground observations, satellite data, and computer simulations to quantify soil temperature-moisture relationships.

As climate change continues to shape our environment, the fate of Christmas trees and the ecosystems they inhabit remains intricately linked to our ability to adapt to shifting soil conditions. Researchers and tree growers are navigating uncharted territory to ensure that these beloved symbols of the holiday season endure for generations to come.”

For more climate-related news and updates, visit AP’s climate coverage.

Follow Melina Walling on Twitter: @MelinaWalling.”

Please note that this paraphrased and expanded text is intended to provide a detailed and informative response while adhering to the formal and serious tone requested.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Christmas Tree Adaptation

More about Christmas Tree Adaptation

• AP’s climate coverage
• Nature Climate Change journal
• Washington State University
• Purdue University’s Midwestern Regional Climate Center
• Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research — UFZ