Artificial Christmas trees are becoming more expensive due to tariffs, driving more customers to purchase real trees. Even though demand for homegrown trees may increase, some tree growers across the state say their trees are getting more expensive too.

And they’re already seeing signs of a busy season ahead.

Tony Guggisberg, 58, owns Guggisberg Tree Farm about 10 miles south of New Ulm. He’s preparing for the holiday season sales.

“I really don't tag a lot of the young trees,” Guggisberg said. “Because even though they might want a small tree, I got to save those for next year.”

Guggisberg plants over 1,500 trees per year to make sure he has a healthy stock for customers. But it’s not cheap—fertilizer, tree seedlings, labor and other expenses are getting more costly. So, his prices ha

See Full Page