Christmas trees

WSU experts are studying a surge of fungal diseases striking down young Christmas trees already weakened by climate change.

Drier summers and warmer autumns spell trouble for that iconic winter evergreen, the Christmas tree. A WSU scientist is working to safeguard the crop.

Plant Pathologist Gary Chastagner studies promising varieties to solve a deadly disease challenge

WSU’s Gary Chastagner has a passion for Christmas trees and science. That passion has led to a rewarding career and lifetime achievement award from the National Christmas Tree Association.

Washington State University researchers are using a $90,000 grant to study the effect of ethylene on needle retention in species commonly grown in the Pacific Northwest.

I know we are still only in Advent. But at this point in December, my mind starts to turn toward Christmas. It just can’t be helped, especially in light of all the ads featuring Santa. Christmas is about tradition: traditional foods, traditional songs, traditional church services. For a few geeks, Christmas is also an ideal […]

PULLMAN, Wash. – Newly funded research at Washington State University will address issues hampering the Christmas tree industry – and possibly expand the market for live trees. Among the biggest problems for growers is Phytophthora root rot, a fungus disease that can shrink plantation yields up to 75 percent. An issue critical to consumers of live […]

PUYALLUP, Wash. – The lots are open and shoppers are already buying and putting up their Christmas trees. But what’s the secret to keeping a Christmas tree fresh through the holiday season? Be sure to provide it with plenty of water, advises Washington State University plant pathologist and internationally recognized Christmas tree expert Gary Chastagner.

PUYALLUP, Wash. – The lots are open and shoppers are already buying and putting up their Christmas trees. What’s the secret to keeping a Christmas tree fresh through the holiday season? Be sure to provide it with plenty of water advises Washington State University plant pathologist and internationally recognized Christmas tree expert Gary Chastagner.

PUYALLUP, Wash. — The secret to keeping a Christmas tree fresh through the holiday season is simple: Provide it with plenty of water. That’s the advice of Washington State University plant pathologist and internationally recognized Christmas tree expert Gary Chastagner.