The natural tree is a Christmas tree grown with special consideration for the Danish nature. The concept combines efficient cultivation with concrete initiatives that strengthen the natural content in and around the Christmas tree culture. Christmas tree producers who use the Natural Tree logo work actively with the principles described below.
Hedgerows
Shrubs and trees act as effective hedgerows that protect the Christmas trees from wind, drying out and night frost. The effect typically extends 5–10 times over the height of the fence on the leeward side and 1–2 times on the windward side. At the same time, the fence can reduce the risk of frost damage in an area corresponding to up to twice the height of the tree.
With hedgerows, a more stable and safe production is achieved, where damage such as bud death, drying out, wind wear, spring night frost and salt damage is reduced. In addition, shelter creates a better microclimate with higher temperatures, increased soil moisture and less evaporation from the needles, which gives better growth and a nice, deep green colour of the natural wood.
Hedgerows with shrubs and trees create habitats for many birds, animals and insects, including beneficial animals that help fight pests such as lice.
Deciduous wood fences are particularly suitable as they are more robust than spruce fences. Flowering shrubs support insects and wild bees, while berries later in the season provide food for both birds and insects.
Hedgerows break up the uniform surfaces and add variety and nature content to the landscape. At the same time, they significantly increase the value of the Christmas tree culture as a habitat for birds.
Green tracks
Good, wide and roadworthy tracks are essential for an efficient harvest season. In the spring, the tracks should be levelled so that the vegetation can establish itself and contribute to stabilisation and drainage over the summer. In case of heavy wear, the spores can be advantageously sown with grass and seed mixtures.
Green trails with flowering vegetation that are not mowed until late in the year are important habitats for insects and wild bees. The tracks often make up 10–20% of the area and therefore represent a significant natural area in a Christmas tree plantation.
Late mowing allows wildflowers to set seeds, creating a food base for bees and butterflies. At the same time, the variety of plant life attracts useful insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which contribute to natural pest control.
Small forest
In many cultures, there are areas that are not suitable for Christmas tree production, such as low-lying areas, slopes or narrow wedges. Here, a small piece of forest provides shelter and adds a lasting natural element to the property with increased amenity value.
A small piece of forest (marginal effects) creates many microhabitats that benefit both plants, insects and animals. At the same time, the forest contributes to the storage of CO₂.
Uncultivated land
Areas where Christmas tree production is not profitable can be advantageously zoned for untouched areas. Uncultivated areas create light-open habitats with room for a different biodiversity than in the culture itself. Here, animals such as hares, larks and lapwings can find food and shelter in the tall vegetation.
Trees worthy of preservation
Preservation of old trees in fences and boundaries contributes to shelter and protects the culture, especially from spring night frosts.
Old and weakened trees are important for biodiversity, as they serve as a habitat for fungi, beetles, and many other insects. Even dead trees have great value.
The trees also provide nesting opportunities for birds such as woodpeckers, titmice, nuthatches, night owls, motley flycatchers and starlings, while bats can overwinter in crevices and cavities. There is a general lack of old and dead trees in the Danish landscape.
Branch and stone piles
Piles of branches and brushwood from pruning and thinning provide shelter and wintering places for many animals, birds and insects.
Stone piles, placed along fences or in uncultivated areas, are heated by the sun and create good habitats for e.g. lizards, amphibians and insects. Larger piles can also provide shelter for smaller predators such as leaks, ferrets and breaches.
Flower stripes
Flower strips with natural vegetation along fences and boundaries attract useful insects such as bees, ladybugs, hoverflies and goldeneye. At the same time, the stripes give a more varied and natural expression in the landscape, which contributes to a better experience of Danish Christmas tree production.
Christmas tree producers who use the natural trees logo work to provide the above on their property.
