A Festive Legacy at Johnston Brothers Tree Farm

As the holiday season fast approaches, Christmas tree farms across eastern Ontario buzz with excitement, welcoming families eager to find the perfect tree for their celebrations. Among them stands a remarkable figure: Pud Johnston, a sprightly 99-year-old founder of the Johnston Brothers Tree Farm, just 71 kilometers south of Ottawa, who shows no signs of slowing down.

“I'm 99 and going for 100,” Pud exclaimed, full of vigor as he enters his 72nd season of selling Christmas trees. The Johnston Brothers Tree Farm has become synonymous with festive celebrations since Pud and his late brother Eric launched the venture back in 1952. While Eric passed away in 2009, Pud continues to uphold their shared legacy with unwavering dedication.

Pud Johnston: The Heart of the Farm

Each day, Pud is actively involved in the farm’s operations, often found pruning trees or engaging with customers. His son, Kerry Johnston, now oversees the farm's daily activities, but Pud’s passion for tree farming keeps him engaged. “I think it's a healthy activity,” he graciously shared. “It's provided lots of exercise and kept me fit; I wouldn’t be 99 years old now if I hadn’t been Christmas tree farming.”

Pud didn't embark on this journey until his late twenties, but for Kerry, it’s been a lifelong calling. He remembers cutting his first tree when he was just eight. “I know nothing else apart from growing up on a tree farm,” he said. The Johnston family recognizes that patience and discipline are vital, as trees take nearly a decade to reach their full height.

A Cherished Tradition for Families

The farm welcomes visitors to either cut down their own trees or choose from a selection available for sale at wholesale prices. The trees start at $80, varying with size—some reaching towering heights of up to 20 feet! Established as a pillar of the community, the Johnston Brothers Tree Farm has cultivated a loyal customer base, with many returning annually.

“The same people come back every year because the trees are good; it’s a different experience,” Kerry explains. Indeed, for families like Lisa Haddow-Green’s, visiting the farm has become an annual tradition. “We came here our first year with Jack when he was just a baby. So, we make it a tradition to come here every year,” Lisa joyfully recounted, beaming at her son, now five.

The Magic of Choosing a Christmas Tree

Long-time patrons like Jackson Traynor, who has been cutting down trees at Johnston’s for over two decades with his family, agree that it wouldn’t be Christmas without a real tree. “It’s just part of the tradition at this point,” he reflected, savoring the enchantment of the experience, from selecting the perfect tree to breathing in that beloved scent of fresh pine.

Looking to the Future

As the festive season unfolds, Kerry is driven by his family’s legacy. “It’s been a long tradition that we've all worked together for as long as we can remember. And that will continue through my children and hopefully their children,” he shared, suggesting that the magic of the Johnston Brothers Tree Farm will live on for generations to come.

As Pud looks ahead to his 100th birthday, his unwavering spirit and connection to the land and community continue to inspire all who come to celebrate in the warmth and joy of choosing a Christmas tree. Will Pud and his family welcome you next holiday season? The Johnston Brothers Tree Farm is waiting to make your Christmas experience unforgettable!