Tuesday, August 13, 2024
After breakfast, the group boarded a bus parked behind the hotel and departed at 8 am for a field tour. Following about an hour’s ride, we arrived at the Larsen A/S Christmas Tree Farm operated by Bastian and Carl Johan. At this site, 1) Carl described the farm and its history, 2) Ulrik discussed a field planting of Nordmann fir somatic seedlings, and 3) Kenneth discussed chemical and mechanical methods that Danes employ to regulate leader growth of Nordmann fir Christmas trees.
— Larsen A/S Christmas Tree Farm —
Next, we reboarded the bus and rode to another site owned by the Johan family. Here, we saw a stand of Turkish fir Christmas trees ready for harvest this season and flagged according to quality classes. The seed source was the Bolu Kokez region in Turkey, an area that I have visted twice to collect cones. Carl discussed his harvest and shipping methods and described his custormers’ preferences.
Turkish Fir Christmas Trees ready for Market
We then walked down a road to an open field where we were provided drinks. As we refreshed, Carl described another (more profitable) business of his, growing and installing green roofs. Trays of sedum mixed wih other low-growing plants were in the field. We could also view the company headquarters with a green roof and green walls. After learning about this insteresting enterprise, we embarked on the bus ride back to the hotel in Kerteminde.
—— Green Roof Business ——
We had lunch back at the hotel, then spent the afternoon listening to more presentations. Dinner was served in the hotel resturant, but I was more tired than hungry and so, returned to my room to chill for the evening.