Hours – Prices – Directions
Steve and Sandy Lockett
[themify_col grid=”1-3 second”]
[themify_box ]
Steve and Sandy Lockett created a legacy when they purchased Buttermilk Farms in 1968. Little did they know how much would happen over these many years. They started out as “gentlemen” farmers (actually Scott and Jeff were the farmers!) with 20+ head of cattle and lots of chickens. They were organic famers before there were organic farmers. Over the years, the farm was home to the best authentic country hams. Beginning in the 1980s, they began selling cut your own Christmas trees.
Their life revolved around their Christian faith. They were members of Covenant Presbyterian in Oak Ridge and 2 Rivers Church in Lenoir City. Steve served as an elder in both churches. They led children’s church and helped with the youth groups. The farm (and boat) were home to numerous Young Life meetings and outings. After Scott and Jeff were out of college, Sandy said to Steve, “We could die with a lot of antiques in the house or we could use that money to adopt kids.”
After much prayer and discussion, they called Bill Williams from WBIR’s Monday’s Child. In 1985, they adopted Connie, Jennifer, and Dede and started a new chapter in the farm’s legacy.
Throughout the history of Buttermilk Farms, Steve and Sandy showed their love for Christ. They opened the farm and their wallet to so many people and events. They set an example for the rest of us to follow. We hope to continue the tradition of using the farm to show Christ’s love. Currently the farm is home to Young Life’s annual Archery Shoot and Mudfest. if you would like to host an event at the farm, please let us know!
Sandra Bourkard Lockett: 1941 – 2006
Stephen Ward Lockett: 1938 – 2014
[/themify_box]
[/themify_col]
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful information
What types of trees do you have?
Do you use any pesticides on your farm?
How do I care for my fresh Christmas tree?
Do I have to cut my own tree or will you help me?
What tools do I need to bring?
Can I reserve a tree and cut it later?
Do you offer any other Christmas items for sale?
When are you open?
How do I find Buttermilk Farms?
Do you have a bailing machine to wrap the tree?
What types of trees do you have?
White Pine
We have many trees up to 12 feet tall.
White pines grow to cutting size in about seven years. They have long, soft needles and have a full look. The needles are very resistant to dropping, so this is a good choice if you plan to keep your tree up for more than two weeks. White pines require a severe pruning every spring to encourage the dense foliage you see on our trees. If white pines are not pruned, they grow up to three feet a year and have large gaps between branches. Each of our trees has been hand-pruned and shaped every year since planting.
Norway Spruce
There are a MANY Norway spruces ready to cut.
Norway spruces grow to cutting size in eight to ten years. The needles are short and “prickly.” This makes them less “kid friendly,” but they have sturdy branches with a more open structure (similar to a fir tree). This makes them more suitable for hanging ornaments on the interior of the branches. The major drawback is that they tend to drop needles as the tree dries out. We have also lost several mature pine trees in the woods around the Christmas tree field from the infestation of pine bark beetles. This has not affected the Christmas trees yet, but if we have another mild winter, the beetles may decide to move into the smaller trees.
Our trees are organically grown.
We never use any insecticides or herbicides, so you don’t have to worry about adverse effects to your family. But this may result in a tree that will have a shape that is not perfect, or you may find a preying mantis egg mass in the tree. (Be sure and look over your tree for these eggs. They are about the size and color of a walnut). If the eggs hatch in your house, your kids will love the science lesson, but you will have thousands of baby preying mantises in your house. Also, be aware that other critters and insects may come home with your tree. Please check your tree before bringing it into the house.
Do you use any pesticides on the farm?
We never use any insecticides or herbicides, so you don’t have to worry about adverse effects to your family. But this may result in a tree that will have a shape that is not perfect, or you may find a preying mantis egg mass in the tree. (Be sure and look over your tree for these eggs. They are about the size and color of a walnut). If the eggs hatch in your house, your kids will love the science lesson, but you will have thousands of baby preying mantises in your house. Also, be aware that other critters and insects may come home with your tree. Please check your tree before bringing it into the house
Please note that there are no refunds once the tree is cut.
How do I care for my fresh Christmas tree?
Caring for your tree is easy and with proper watering it should last through the Christmas season. When you arrive home with your tree, shake it well to remove any loose needles and immediately put it into water. Then just before you place it in your tree stand, cut off another inch from the bottom. Then place it in your tree stand. Water it and add some Sprite or 7Up. We recommend checking the water level of your tree each day and supplementing the watering with some Sprite or 7Up. The sugar in these drinks will help the tree to last longer.
Do I have to cut my own tree or will you help me?
We will help you cut your tree and we will even cut it for you. No need to worry. We are here to help you in any way we can.
What tools do I need to bring?
There is no need to bring any tools! We can provide you with all the tools necessary to cut down your tree. If you want to bring your own tools, please bring a tree saw. (Sorry no chain saws permitted.)
You may want to bring gloves and rope.
Can I reserve a tree and cut it later?
Of course! Come out to the farm anytime; pay for your tree and we will give you a tag to put on the tree. Return whenever you want to cut your tree.
Please note that there are no refunds once the tree is cut.
Do you offer any other Christmas items for sale?
Yes. We offer wreaths. All are made on the Farm and pricing will be available when you arrive. Also, we have tree stands.
When are you open?
Hours of Operation:
Friday after Thanksgiving: 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Saturday after Thanksgiving: 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Sundays: Closed
Please check the website for other days open.
How do I find Buttermilk Farms?
Take I-40 exit 364 (Melton Hill Dam). Turn north toward Oak Ridge; take first right. (There is a large sign for Buttermilk Farms). Follow small Christmas tree signs to the tree farm which will be on the right (look for the Santa flag).
Do you have a bailing machine to wrap the tree?
No, we do not have bailing machine. Please bring rope or twine to tie your tree.
Christmas Trees and Family Fun
A Family Tradition
It's Christmas time in East Tennessee!
After 37 years of selling Christmas trees this is our last year. Since 1982, we have been so blessed to have met so many of you and been a part of your Christmas celebrations!
We’ll keep you posted about what’s happening on the farm in the future.