A Spruce Amongst Us: Pea Ridge's Festive Triumph by John Grady

Where Roots Run Deep and Spirits Soar

Nestled just across the river from Hermann, where the Missouri air is filled with nostalgia and whispers of winter, stands Pea Ridge. More than just a tract of land, it represents a canvas where nature's artistry and human dedication converge. This year, that dedication bore fruit—or rather, needles—as Pea Ridge's Norway Spruce clinched the top spot in the Missouri Christmas Tree Association's (MCTA) annual contest. Founded in 1972 by LeRoy and Mary Rood, Pea Ridge isn't merely a farm; it's a living legacy. Under the watchful Missouri sky, Mike and Scott Rood, alongside their family, do more than just cultivate trees—they nurture traditions. This year, their Norway Spruce, a symbol of resilience and beauty, became a source of state pride.

The Missouri Christmas Tree Association

The Missouri Christmas Tree Association (MCTA), a group of dedicated Christmas tree growers and enthusiasts, plays a vital role in boosting Missouri's Christmas tree industry. Their meetings, though less musical than a scene from "Spirited," might remind one of the film's playful energy, with laments about "plastic pines and same-day shipping," championing the scent of a real authentic tree. Through networking and resource sharing, the MCTA fervently promotes real Christmas trees. Their annual Tree & Wreath Contest transcends mere competition, embodying a true celebration of dedication and craftsmanship within the community, and that means the piney scent of a real authentic Christmas tree.

A Tree's Journey to the Governor's Mansion and the State Capitol

Pea Ridge's achievement in the contest marked the beginning of a broader display of their holiday spirit. The farm generously donated not only two of its finest Norway Spruces to the Missouri Governor's Mansion but also contributed another magnificent tree to the state Capitol. Pea Ridge provided a 8-foot Canaan tree to the capital, which is located on the 2nd floor. This generosity, a symbol of the farm's commitment to the holiday spirit, brings a piece of Hermann's rustic charm to the Capital. These donations represent Pea Ridge's dedication to sharing the joy, beauty, and the spirit of giving during this holiday season.

Embracing Tradition Mary Rood on the Magic of Christmas Tree Farming

We had the opportunity to speak with Mary Rood, she said “it is all about the experience”. Mary explained, "Real trees possess a unique ambiance. When you add the experience of personally harvesting your tree, there's a touch of magic involved. Numerous families return annually, and as their children grow, they continue the tradition at our farm to select their trees." The conversation naturally turned to their recent accolade of having the number one tree in the state. Mary elaborated, “The voting process has transitioned to online, differing from the previous in-person method at the summer conference using cut trees. Now, members vote on tree pictures viewed online.” Discussing the challenging growing season of 2023, Mary commented, “Growing Christmas trees in Missouri, especially the Norway Spruce, presents its challenges. This season's drought led us at Pea Ridge to install more wells for watering our trees." She added, “Most of our visitors are from St. Louis, but it's becoming less distinct now with the prevalence of credit card transactions with checks you could see where they were from. Around 15%-20% of our sales are from local residents, with the majority coming from the St. Louis area. Trees spend at least 6 years in the ground and an additional 2-3 years in the field. This means they witness 8-9 years of history before they ever grace our homes."

A Haven for Holiday Hearts

Pea Ridge is a haven for those seeking holiday magic. Families bond over choosing the perfect tree, laughter echoes on hay rides, and the blend of pine scent with hot chocolate creates a quintessential Christmas experience. It's a scene reminiscent of a cherished holiday classic.As the year wanes and the holiday spirit rises, Pea Ridge stands as a reminder of the essence of the season. It's not just about the winning tree or festive decorations; it's about the people, memories, and simple joys of the holidays. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Pea Ridge invites you into a world where Christmas transcends the calendar and becomes a heartfelt experience.

Invitation to Wonder

For those drawn to the magic of the season, Pea Ridge awaits with open arms. It's more than just a place; it's a festive experience, akin to stepping into a living storybook of yesteryear. Here, amidst the cozy nights and twinkly lights, you'll find more than just your perfect tree. It’s a place where you're not just buying a tree, but embracing the values and spirit of the holidays. Pea Ridge invites you to join in bringing back the authentic, pine-scented cheer of Christmas, a symbol of genuine holiday spirit. Here, the enchantment of Christmas isn’t just about decoration; it’s about capturing the heart of the season and rediscovering the glow of tradition. Pea Ridge is ready to be part of your Christmas enchantment.