On this week's Good Growing podcast we sit down with Robert Richardson, president of the Illinois Christmas Tree Growers Association. Robert is also an accomplished Christmas tree grower north of the Chicago area. During the show, Robert gives the scoop on the high demand for fresh-cut Christmas trees in 2020. We learn what all goes into growing a Christmas tree and the years of patience it requires. We also get into Richard's important work with Trees for Troops. Plus your questions answered: What are the most commonly grown Christmas trees in Illinois? Should you boil your water first before putting it in the tree stand? Does Aspirin or bleach in the water help tree last longer? What are some important tips to keeping a cut tree looking good the entire holiday season? When I'm done with the Christmas tree can I burn it? I want to grow my own live Christmas tree, but will digging it up damage the roots? Illinois Christmas Tree Growers Association https://ilchristmastrees.com/ Trees for Troops https://www.christmasspiritfoundation.org/ Illinois Extension Christmas Trees and More https://web.extension.illinois.edu/trees/index.cfm Contact the hosts Ken Johnson kjohnso@illinois.edu Katie Parker keparkr2@illinois.edu Chris Enroth cenroth@illinois.edu