Where has the Spring Gone?

With Summer upon us, I look back to see what has been keeping us so busy: The end of March found us planting new Christmas tree transplants. The warm Spring allowed us to plant earlier then normal and in some great weather. April was spent straightening and firming in the new tree transplants then on to picking off pines cones from the Fraser Fir trees.

Every day is Earth Day at Stokoe Farms

Stokoe Farms has 80 acres of tree which are producing oxygen, absorbing carbon dioxide, preventing soil erosion and providing shelter for wildlife EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR! Nothing is more environmentally friendly and says “Go Green” more then a real Christmas tree. They improve the environment, are renewable and recyclable. Every day is Earth Day at “Stokoe Farms.

Christmas Tree Farm

Spring is here!

Larry and granddaughter Hannah take advantage of a cold but sunny day to do some corrective shearing on these 5 year old Fraser Fir christmas trees. These trees will still need to be hand shaped every year until they are ready for harvest in 3 to 5 years. Shearing is normally done in July. We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of this years Christmas tree transplants. Last year we planted trees in a late March snow flurry!

In Memorium Bob Krenzer

Bob Krenzer March 16th, 2009

Bob passed away suddenly while working on his beloved John Deere farm equipment at his home. You will remember Bob by his friendly smile even when driving the antique tractors on some of the coldest days at Christmas time. He always made himself available whenever we needed him to drive tractor or to work on the crop farm. His knowledge of antique equipment, his hobby, was a great asset to us. Our deepest sympathy from us to Bob’s wife Charlotte, his family and many friends.

Bob driving customers to get their Christmas tree on a cold winter day with an antique tractor.

In Memorium Judy Ann Stokoe

Judy Ann Stokoe March 2nd, 2009

Judy Ann passed away suddenly. She was an integral part of the farm the moment she married Dick, the oldest of the three brothers. Some 21 years ago she put that same dedication into the Christmas tree farm by greeting people, passing out information, making wreaths or doing whatever was needed. She knew more people then any of us, being active in the community, delivered mail, and traveling with the senior citizens. She will be greatly missed by the entire family, many friends and the Wheatland community.

2009 North East Christmas Tree Convention

Suzanne, Larry and Martha just returned from a great winter meeting which was sponsored by the Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York. It was an information packed 2 days where we visited with old friends and learned from other Northeast growers. Larry attended sessions on shearing, Christmas tree pests, soil testing and needle analysis. Suzanne concentrated on marketing and “web 2.0″ while Martha  collected new wreath and gift shop ideas. Our keynote speaker reminded us that we need to not only grow a high quality Christmas tree but to “create an experience” for our customers. The meeting was concluded with Suzanne being elected to the board of directors of the New York Association. We are now working on a list of ways to enhance our customers experience during the coming Fall and Christmas seasons.

Santa Skydives in to Kick Off Christmas Tree Season at Stokoe Farms – FREE ADMISSION

We have lots of trees waiting for your family this holiday.  Check out the unique items in our gift store during your visit.  If you came out to enjoy good old fashioned family fun during Pumpkin Harvest, then you’re certain to enjoy winter fun on the farm.

FREE Admission

Safe Family Fun on the Farm

Courtesy of Moore Family

On Saturday, September 28, Linda Kent decided to bring her grandsons, ages 6 and 3 to Stokoe Farms.  She wrote: “I want to thank you for a great day.  It seemed nice to take them somewhere where I didn’t have to have a death grip on them.  They felt very safe there.  The youngest loved the corn bin and the oldest loved the race track.  I think they did everything twice and most four or five times.  We arrived around 10:30 a.m. and when I looked at my watch it was 4:30 p.m.  They slept like logs (so did grandma) at night.”

Come out for a visit and send us your feedback. Feel free to post information about your most recent visit to Stokoe Farms.

Welcome to Our Blog!

Welcome to Stokoe Farms’ Blog. Check back often as we give you updates on all of the great family fun on the farm.  If you haven’t visited yet this season, plan a trip this holiday weekend.  Join us on October 12 for Pet Adoption Day in partnership with Scottsville Veterinary Clinic from 12 noon - 3 p.m.   Admission is just $7 and includes all Pumpkin and Harvest activities.  Mini-pumpkin launcher and pumpkins are extra.  Post your own comment about your experience at Stokoe.  We hope to see you here soon.