Local Tree Farm Spruces Up Christmas (My Aunt & Uncle)

Local Tree Farm Spruces up Christmas

Phoenix, NY--- When Barry and Christine Leifheit bought their 54 acres of woodland and pasture savannahs in the perennial lake effect northern tier of Onondaga County over thirty years ago, little did they know it would become a Christmas destination for generations of families.

 It was decided from day one, there would be limited emphasis on farm animals, although dabbling in egg layers, geese and a pony for the kids occurred in the “early years”.  Rather it was Barry’s interest in forest management, hunting and supplying the house with wood heat that transformed the land into a tree farm.  And so the Leifheit Tree Farm was established.

“I was originally interested in growing a plot of Christmas trees for family use and for a shelter-break against the Lake Ontario winds.  Then it evolved into a seasonal small business when neighbors started asking when I was going to open up a cut-your-own operation; and the rest they say, is history, said Barry.  Through mentoring from other growers, the New York Forest Owners Association and the American Tree Farm system, I’ve gained valuable knowledge in honing my passion over the years.”

“I have enjoyed the relaxed work schedule on building up my 4 acre plantation.  A few hours of planting seedlings in the spring, a few hours pruning, a few hours clipping between the rows and maybe even an hour nap here or there under the boughs,” commented the outdoorsman.

The now retired UPS delivery and Onondaga County weights and measures guy has seen his share of changes.  “Back when I started selling trees, the Scotch Pine was thee tree of choice but now Douglas and Balsam Firs, Colorado Blue and White Spruce trees seem to be the variety of choice.  Many are choosing artificial, over-seas trees to the real ones for convenience sake and just the other day a couple was taking pictures of my trees and I-phoning them back to the family for a tree vote.  I guess you can call this progress”, said the purveyor of the pines.

One thing that has remained constant however is the bond of cutting your own in providing memories to countless families.  “There’s something inherently special about bundling up the kids and sleds to go pick out that perfect tree.  I’m now seeing three generations pull in the driveway and grab the saws.  I take care of the trees more for these smiling faces, the pictures and to hear the stories than for the money.” 

As one customer ardently stated when handing over a Jackson; “The Leifheit’s work in sharing their Christmas trees with us every year creates lasting relationships.  Isn’t that what the holiday season is all about?”   Published in Lancaster Farming, Northern Edition  12/20/2011