Our Legacy
Over 75 years of tree care excellence — from lighting Temple Square to planting Utah's Capitol Christmas tree. Read what others have written about our work.
Church News
The inaugural Christmas lighting at Temple Square occurred on December 9, 1965, when President David O. McKay activated approximately 40,000 lights before 15,000 attendees. The tradition was made possible by arborist J. Leland Behunin.
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Deseret News
Arborist J. Leland Behunin convinced Church leadership that holiday lights could be installed safely on Temple Square trees. His family continued maintaining the lights for nearly two decades.
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Deseret News
A live 12-foot tree planted by Behunin Horticulture glows at the southeast corner of the Capitol grounds, serving as Utah's permanent Christmas tree for future generations.
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Deseret News
Utah officials planted a living 12-foot blue spruce at the Capitol grounds to replace the traditional cut Christmas tree, protecting the Capitol's restored interior from potential damage.
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KSL
A business feature highlighting Behunin Horticulture's 66+ year history as a family-owned landscaping company, now led by the third generation with certified arborists and horticulturists on staff.
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