For generations, the Burton family at Christmas Hills Tree Farm in Mossyrock, Washington, has nurtured the spirit of Christmas by cultivating exceptional Christmas trees. This isn’t just a business; it’s a cherished legacy that began in 1949 with Charley Burton.

He planted the first Noble Fir seedlings in the U.S., the beginnings for what would become a cornerstone of the Christmas tree industry in the Pacific Northwest.

The Noble Fir, known for its majestic beauty, stiff branches for ornaments, and long-lasting freshness, has since become the most popular Christmas trees in the western United States. It’s a tribute to the quality and dedication fostered by the Burton family, including Charley’s son, John, who now operates Christmas Hills Tree Farm. Under their expert care, the farm has expanded and flourished, becoming one of the most respected growers in the country. Their commitment to growing the highest quality Christmas trees has even earned them the honor of sending trees to the White House.

Choosing a Noble Fir, Nordmann Fir or other fresh Christmas tree means you have more than just a tree – it’s an invitation to share in a rich history, experience unmatched quality, and create lasting memories infused with the fresh, invigorating scent of a true Pacific Northwest Christmas.

At Roger’s Gardens, the magic of the Christmas season comes alive. For over five decades, the Herbert family has cultivated a legacy of beauty and quality in Newport Beach. What began with Roger McKinnon in 1965, has blossomed under the stewardship of Gavin Herbert Sr., and now his son, Gavin Herbert Jr.

This Christmas, we invite you to experience the unparalleled quality of the fresh-cut Christmas trees from Christmas Hills and the Burton family. Sourced from the Burton’s high-elevation family farm, your tree has been hand-selected, ensuring the freshest, fullest Christmas tree.

Trees Going to D.C.

OFFICIAL MISSION:
White House staffers spend
day in Satsop, Mossyrock
to find the perfect trees

By Erik Olson
The Chronicle - 2004

MOSSYROCK -
The weather in Southwest Washington on Tuesday was typical – overcast in the morning, with the sun peaking out of the clouds by the afternoon.

But the weather was perfect for two special guests to choose three special Christmas trees from two local growers to go on display at the White House and Camp David this year.

Gary Walters, the White House chief usher, and Irv Williams. The superintendent of the grounds, traveled to the Christmas Hills tree farm belonging to John and Carol Tillman at Satsop to choose trees for the Oval Office and for the president’s vacation home at Camp David.

That afternoon, Walters and Williams drove to the farm of John Burton, a friend of Tillman’s, at Mossyrock to select the big one – an 18 foot Douglas fir, which will be the official White House tree on display in the Blue Room.

“This is a beautiful area out here,” Williams said from Burton’s farm, which is located up on a hill east of Mossyrock.

“The tree we select up here is going in the White House,” Walters added.

The White House staffers were in Southwest Washington because Tillman, who lives in Rochester, was crowned a grand champion Christmas tree grower for a Douglas fir at a contest held by the National Christmas Tree Association in Pennsylvania.

With that victory, Tillman and his family will travel to Washington D.C. to watch his 11 foot Noble fir tree be put on display in the Oval Office. A second tree, a 10 foot Noble fir, wil be put in Laurel Cabin at Camp David.

“They really liked the symmetry, the color, the density of the branches.” Tillman said of the two trees. “We’re Blessed!”

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE

Keep your tree fresh and festive throughout the holiday season with these simple steps:

1. Unbox Promptly
Even if you’re not setting up your tree right away, remove it from the box to allow air circulation. The tree can remain wrapped in twine. We recommend cutting the box open from a corner in a straight line — it’s easier than pulling the tree out.

2. Store with Care (If Not Using Right Away)
If you’re not placing the tree in a water stand within 24 hours, store it in a cool, humid area with the trunk base standing in a bucket of water.

3. Make a Fresh Cut Before Standing
Before placing your tree in a water stand, cut at least ½ inch off the trunk base. Do this within 2 hours of placing it in water to help the tree absorb water and stay fresh.

4. Keep it Watered
Fill your tree stand with water and tree preservative (available at Roger’s Gardens) and check it daily. Never let the stand run dry — once the base dries out, the tree can no longer absorb water, even if you refill it. The first few days are when your tree will drink the most.

5. Prep & Enjoy
Remove twine and netting to let your tree fully expand. Place an old sheet or plastic beneath to catch any loose needles and gently shake the tree to release more. Let it sit for a few hours to settle before adding lights or decorations.