Discover Delmarva: Nichols Tree Farm

EDEN, Md-  Tradition is unmatched around the holiday season, and Nichol’s Tree Farm has been captivating the spirit of the season for over 50 years. Owner and Operator Bruce Nichols tells us that this year’s harvest is even better. Nichols says, “We’ve got probably the biggest source of different varieties this year that we’ve had in a lot of years.”

The trees take years to grow, so much of what you see was planted years ago. Which is why the process of growing these trees is such a delicate balance, based on knowledge, prime conditions, and, of course, some good luck! “Growing this year was good for the trees; we had lucky rainfall events. We had one thing that was negative, and you’ll find a few trees that are burnt on one side. And that was the collection area for a late frost.”

The farm itself offers acres of trees and pristine Eastern Shore woodlands that provide a unique ecosystem- Plus, great growing conditions for not just trees but some other goodies you’ll find during your visit as well! Nichols tells us, “This field was actually popcorn. We produced over a ton and a half of popcorn, and it was all hand-picked and hand-shelled.”

They have plenty of this locally grown savory and sweet treat, along with an assortment of Christmas Cacti inside the barn, where the temperature is just a little bit warmer than outside. One of my favorite parts was their newest edition this year, a real 1927 model-t that has been beautifully restored, resting in their pre-chopped tree fields. If you want to get your hands dirty, though?

Nichols says Don’t worry, there’s plenty to choose from! “And what we do is we intermix through the whole fields. And we’ve got at least 20 acres of fields that are actively growing. And people can go in and walk through and select.”

Trees of all shapes and sizes all cost the same price, too!

But, make sure you stop to smell the trees too, Nichols says all the varieties of trees they have offer varying scents, it just depends on who you are! “Something that almost stinks to me. Might be the fragrance they’re looking for because we’re growing up with it.”

You can visit them at 25248 Rewastico Road in Hebron to grab your tree and goodies for the holiday season.