Growing Christmas trees in Ellis County is no easy task. As we first started planting, agricultural experts claimed that it couldn't be done. "Too little rain, not enough topsoil, try something else," we were told. But we've found a way.

We grow  Pinus eldarica, also known as Mondale pines. These hardy trees thrive in both our cold winters and hot, humid summers. They also prefer alkaline soil, which we have a lot of here in Midlothian.

While the trees are tough enough to withstand drought, we have drilled a well and installed a drip irrigation system to keep them growing strong even when we have to wait several weeks between rain  showers.

Occasionally, we even get snow here at Rancho Poco Loco.  The trees look even more beautiful with a light dusting.