• Morgan, Ronald H.
  
• McCormack, Maxwell L. Jr.
  

Since the beginning of plantation production of balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) for Christmas trees, researchers and growers have sought to improve color, form, and growth rate for this species. Cultural practices have included fertilization to enhance growth of crop trees and use of herbicides, mowing and mulching to reduce the competition of other plant life. Herbicide use has helped improve form, growth, and color characteristics but has resulted in increased damage to the plantations by white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus borealis Miller). The deer select the culturally improved trees for browse.