Christmas Trees Costing More Green This Year

BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Money doesn't grow on trees, but Christmas trees still make money.

Christmas Trees Cost More Green

But in this economy, NewsCenter 5's Rhondella Richardson reported, how much money is the question.

Steve Prisco is only in his third-season of selling Christmas trees at Prisco's Market. He ordered fewer from Quebec this year. He's making enough green to barely stay in the black, but careful to price the balsam and Fraser firs for shoppers in every price range. Trees start at $35.

"Profit this year will probably be down 8 to 10 percent. We had to purchase our trees about six months in advance, and it was also based on fuel surcharges at the time. Diesel fuel was hitting close to $5 at the time of the buying. We definitely paid more this year for trees," Prisco said.

It's a tough economy and even the tree will cost a little more.

"I wouldn't skimp on Christmas at all," said shopper Michael Quirk. "I spent $50 on a Christmas tree on Friday. That is more than I ever paid for a tree."

Hanson Farm in Bridgewater cut back on high-end and specialty trees this year.

"I have sold two trees so far, so it is not bad considering the trees have been out on the lot for an hour," Karl Hanson said.

"We are supporting local business, so we are going to help the economy out that way," said shopper Kristin Stork.