Looking For A Christmas Tree Near Encinitas? Here's A Local Guide

Encinitas, CA — It could still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this year — and to do it safely, even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

At least 25 million real Christmas trees are sold each year across America, and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 U.S. states. And despite these unprecedented times, the practice will continue in 2020. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as the coronavirus pandemic worsens to ensure locals can take home their perfect tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

Tree lot operators and choose-and-cut farms "must protect the health and safety of their employees, provide customers with the confidence they need so they can enjoy selecting a tree without risk and demonstrate to state and local officials they are conducting business responsibly," the the National Christmas Tree Association said on its website this year.

In fact, the association has circulated a special guide full of recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree providers to follow. Sellers are advised to frequently sanitize items such as hand saws and tree cart handles, as well as countertops, restrooms and other areas. An onsite "COVID-19 coordinator" and personal protective equipment for employees are also being encouraged.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list in 2020, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms within driving distance of Encinitas.

• Pinery Christmas Trees
• Waynes World of Trees & Pumpkin Patch
• Pumpkin & Polar Palooza
• Lowe's Home Improvement
• Evergreen Nursery
• Purdy Tree Farms
• Great West Christmas Trees
• Purdy Tree Farms

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree can take some patience, practice and good advice. Here are a few things to know, according to the National Christmas Tree Association:

• What to know about fake Christmas trees
• Knowing the different types of real Christmas trees
• Tips on selecting a real tree
• Caring for your tree
• Christmas tree safety
• How to recycle your tree