Undeniably, families are looking for fun activities to do together during this difficult time. This fall, pumpkin patches and apple orchards were busy places as families enjoyed the outdoors and were able to safely social distance. The same trend has extended into the winter season, and as a result, the local Christmas tree farm finds itself busier than ever.
Aldrich Christmas Tree Farm, located northwest of Rowan, has been selling trees since 1976. Owner and operator Lee “Butch” Aldrich says the tree business was nothing that he had planned and was more of a turn of “luck.” “Everything we do is because of luck,” Aldrich says. While in the military in the 1960s, he happened to be stationed in Germany. Luck would have it that he did maneuvers in the majestic Black Forest in Southern Germany. He says he fell in love with the trees he saw there.
When he eventually got back to Iowa, he and his wife decided to plant evergreen trees on their property, which has been in the family since the late 1800s. Luck would again have it that the sandy soil in the area worked well for those types of trees. More luck happened when Aldrich says someone advised him to shear the trees and consider selling some.
In 1976, Aldrich Christmas Tree Farm sold about ten trees. The next year, it was closer to 50 and by the early 80s, a few hundred. Now, over forty years later, they sell up to 1,000 trees per year. And this year, Aldrich anticipates sales could be even higher.
With concerns about COVID and fewer people traveling, that spells good news for Christmas tree retailers. “People have the time at home this year, and they really want something to spark their mood because of the COVID stress that everybody’s under,” said Doug Hundley, seasonal spokesman for the National Christmas Tree Association. “The Christmas spirit is a big force this time of year, and people know that the more they put into it, the more they get out of it.”
A recent survey of Christmas tree retailers estimated that 2020 sales are up 29% already. Aldrich says he is anticipating such a bump. He confirmed sales started out pretty normal when they opened the day after Thanksgiving. But since then, it has been very steady. Additionally, he has heard that three other tree farms in the state are already sold out, so he could see more business coming his way.
“People are looking for something to do outdoors together and this is a good choice,” said Aldrich. He added that his favorite part of the business is the slower moments when he has time to chat with customers. He enjoys asking where people are from and about their backgrounds.
Whatever happens in the next few weeks, Aldrich Tree Farm is ready to go. There are still plenty of trees in the field that folks get to cut down themselves. Additionally, they also sell beautiful handmade live wreaths, garland and porch pails. Though they aren’t able to have their regular arts and craft show this year, there is still plenty of fun to be had with cute photo opportunities for the family. Ultimately, Aldrich’s has everything you need for a festive fun time.
Aldrich Tree Farm is located just off US Highway 69 between Clarion and Belmond at 1941 Taylor Ave, Belmond. Detailed directions and more information are available on the Aldrich Tree Farm’s website: aldrichtreefarm.com. The farm's hours are from noon to dark, seven days a week, every day until Christmas Eve.
