According the the NC State Climate almanac, as of April 17, 2026, many areas of WNC are currently experiencing the third driest 30 day period out of the last 26 years. For example, in Laurel Springs the average precipitation for the last 30 day period is 4 inches. This year, Laurel Springs has had .9 inches of precipitation in the last 30 days. (In 2013, Laurel Springs had zero during this time period).

Drought or extreme drought is covering the state.

It will be extremely important this year to watch for rapid spider mite population increases. Spider mite flare up often occur in fields that are windy, lower than 3000 ft elevation, south or southwest facing. Information about spider mites in NC Christmas tree fields can be found here. Envidor (Spirodiclofen) is a good option for spider mite and rust mite control, and can be applied together with balsam twig treatments.

Treating for balsam twig aphid is likely to be very important this year. Many WNC locations showed peak twig aphid hatch occurring three weeks ahead of historical averages. I’ve also seen numerous fields this week in Avery, Ashe, and Alleghany at 10-15% bud break. Balsam twig aphid eggs in the majority of WNC fields are hatched and these resulting generations are ready to feed on growing buds. Balsam twig aphid is best controlled by flupyradifurone. The only product containing flupyradifurone and currently labeled for Christmas trees is Altus. Systemic balsam twig aphid control products such as flupyradifurone should be applied when the majority of balsam twig aphids have hatched from their overwintering eggs and before bud break or close to bud break.