The Xmas Tree Project at the Bioreserve

Coming in 2027: Local Xmas Trees Pickup

In 2027 we hope to be able to offer select unique xmas trees grown from our Xmas Tree project here at the Bioreserve.
Sign up to be notified when our trees become available

Hawai‘i Christmas-Tree Adaptation Project

We’re testing and selecting Christmas-tree species and cultivars that thrive at low- to mid-elevations across the Hawaiian Islands. Our goal is to create a reliable, pest-resistant, and climate-appropriate supply of locally grown holiday trees—then share the know-how with farmers statewide.

Why Local Trees Matter

  • Biosecurity: Mainland imports regularly carry invasive insects, fungal spores, and weeds that jeopardize native forests and agriculture. Locally grown trees eliminate that pathway.

  • Sustainability: Island-grown trees slash the carbon footprint tied to trans-Pacific shipping and cold storage.

  • Economic diversification: A proven Christmas-tree model gives farmers a profitable, renewable crop for the December peak season.

  • Community resilience: Keeping holiday dollars in Hawai‘i supports local jobs and strengthens rural economies.

What We’re Testing

  1. Species & cultivars tolerant of Hawai‘i’s mild winters, acidic soils, and varied rainfall.

  2. Seed provenance to identify genetic lines that handle heat, wind, and tropical pests.

  3. Silviculture techniques—spacing, pruning, nutrition, and integrated pest management tailored to island conditions.

  4. Post-harvest handling for freshness, needle retention, and safe transport within the state.

 

How We Share Results

  • Open-source field reports and cultivation guides for farmers and nurseries.

  • Workshops & field days demonstrating best practices from propagation through harvest.

  • Collaboration with UH-CTAHR, DOA, and local ag co-ops to scale successful varieties.

Get Involved

We welcome:

  • Growers interested in trial seedlings or hosting test plots.

  • Researchers & educators who can contribute expertise in forestry, horticulture, or entomology.

  • Volunteers willing to help with planting, data collection, and outreach events.

Add your contact information below to receive project updates, workshop invitations, and opportunities to participate. Together we can make locally grown Christmas trees a reality for Hawai‘i—reducing invasive-species risk while keeping holiday traditions green and homegrown.

Interested in volunteering?

We hold workshops and volunteer days to teach the community about growing Xmas trees in Hawaii. Please click on the link below to add your info and we will reach out to you.
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