The Watkins Tree Farm is a family run tree farm. They started planting their first Christmas trees during the pandemic in 2020. 8 Acres of their farm is used by the Peterson brothers and they use 1 acre for their trees. Their long term goal is to be able to use all 9 acres for the trees. They currently have 1,200 Scotch pine and white pine planted in their fields. For the past three years they have ordered Fraser firs. In their gift shop it’s all vendors from the SES community. 

Due to the soil they have and the Kansas weather, certain varieties of trees don’t grow very well, they have had 300 trees die so far. FFA is currently testing their soil to see what they have. 

Jeff’s cousin owns the Delp Tree Farm in St. John Ks and they order over 1,000 pre-cut trees so they just add on to their order. They usually make wreaths out of a tree that most likely isn’t going to sell. 

Opening day this year they had some kids in FFA at SES come out and read a story to some children and do a craft as well. On December 12th Parents as Teachers will have story time with Mrs. Claus. They will read a story and decorate cookies. They also had gypsum summer youth come out and learn about their trees. They are open to more ideas as well so if you have any you can reach out and let them know. 

Right now they plant around 300 trees every March and September. They have to continue to plant every year since it takes so long for them to grow. 

If you would like a real tree this Christmas go to the Watkins Tree Farm and help support them so they can continue to grow their business!