Dunedin Man Revives Christmas Tree Farm to Honor Late Son

A Dunedin man is revitalizing his Christmas tree farm, turning it back into a magical landscape in hopes of making his late son proud. John Munro, the owner of the Christmas Tree Farm, has spent the last two years transforming the property, which he has dreamed of owning for 34 years. This season, he sold between 25 and 30 trees, a significant increase compared to last year when he provided only a few to family and friends.

After two years of dedicated work, Munro is focused on cultivating a large pine forest filled with “perfect” specimens. He remarked, “I’m quite precious about the trees; I don’t want to be selling substandard trees.” At 67 years old, Munro envisions a future where he can transition from his long-time career as a real estate agent to becoming a professional Christmas tree planter and pruner.

A Dream in Memory of His Son

Growing these trees is not just a business venture for Munro; it is deeply personal. He recalls the last time his land flourished with well-pruned trees was when his son, Nick Munro, was still alive. Nick, who tragically passed away in 2005 after an altercation, shared countless joyful moments with his father on the farm.

“We did the fencing together, we had the deer here together, we planted trees together, we sold Christmas trees… it was just such a hoot of a time,” Munro reflected. The pain of losing his son lingers, but he finds solace in the idea that Nick would be pleased with his efforts to restore the farm.

“My goal is to have a whole block of gorgeous trees shaped and pruned, all the perfect size, full and fluffy, so that people will come in and just say, ‘I’ll just have that one, they’re all perfect’,” Munro stated, emphasizing his dedication to creating a beautiful space.

Looking Toward the Future

With an approximate four-and-a-half-year growth cycle for a Christmas tree, Munro believes that in two years’ time, his farm will truly be a sight to behold. He aims not only to honor Nick’s memory but also to make his wife, Fenella, and their other children proud of what he can achieve.

As he continues to nurture the farm, Munro expresses a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. “It’s always bittersweet to be here,” he said. Yet, he is determined to move beyond the sadness and focus on the joy that the farm can bring to others during the festive season.

In Munro’s vision, the Christmas Tree Farm will once again be a place of happiness and wonder, reflecting the love and memories he shared with his son.