Getting a real Christmas tree remains a tradition for some. But a business owner in south Edmonton tells CityNews the industry is struggling to keep up with the growing demand.
It’s due to COVID-19 and other environmental problems.
“The availability is lower than it’s ever been. There was a peak during COVID when people were forced to stay home. That peak demand really depleted stock,” said Perry Stothart, a certified horticulturalist at Classic Landscapes.
Stothart has been in the business for over 30 years. Although his business has brought in several hundred trees this year, he believes they will all sell out before Christmas.
“We are getting some in the next week or so and will sell out. But it’s an opportunity for people if they wait a little too long. It’s not quite over yet, but we’re getting there,” said Stothart.
Just like in Edmonton, the demand for real Christmas trees among Calgarians is surging as well. A tree lot outside Holy Cross Anglican church in the city’s northwest will be forced to close earlier this year due to the high demand.
“Twenty-five per cent of the trees were pretty much sold before the lot opened,” said Lorne Webber from 31st St. Cyprian’s Scout Group in Calgary.
“As you can see all we have left is 10 trees. Probably today is the last day.”
“We are seeing fewer tree farms growing Christmas trees,” added Stothart. “You can have pests in different parts in the country which can restrict our ability to ship trees across the country.”
Last year some big retail stores like Ikea announced they were not selling trees at their Canadian stores due to the shortage.
In a statement to CityNews, Home Depot said it has increased inventory to keep up with the demand, as Edmonton is one of their strongest markets in Canada.
However, CityNews stopped at two Home Depot stores in south Edmonton on Monday and weren’t able to find any trees.