Growers Grateful For Higher Christmas Tree Prices

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — After several tough years, the nation's Christmas tree growers are happy to see higher prices, but customers shouldn't worry too much.

Any price increase shouldn't be enough to dampen their holiday cheer.

Bryan Ostlund, executive director of the Salem, Oregon-based Pacific Northwest Tree Association, says growers this year will get about $20 for an average tree. That's a couple dollars more than last year.

But Ostlund says the price paid to growers is only one of many factors in what a tree actually costs at a lot. Consumers might end up paying just a little more.

John Tillman, a grower in southern Washington, says it's a relief to see prices rise and supplies come closer to demand. He says many farmers quit the business because of low prices.