Christmas Tree Shopping In The La Jolla Area? Find Local Farms

La Jolla, CA — As the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic threatens some of America's most quintessential holiday traditions in 2020, it might still be possible to hunt for the right Christmas tree — and do it safely.

Did you know that 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? During this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure patrons can select a tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

"It is likely that Christmas will have a greater significance for many in 2020 as we seek to offset the disruption of normalcy from COVID-19 with a family-oriented holiday experience," the the National Christmas Tree Association said on its website this year. "However, shopping for a Christmas tree, the iconic centerpiece of the holiday, will be a different experience this year as the risks from COVID-19 must be taken seriously."

In fact, the association has created a special guide with recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree sellers 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. Maximum head counts and touchless, paperless payment systems are also being encouraged.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, here's a selection of great tree farms within driving distance of La Jolla.

• Mr Jingle's Christmas Trees
• Purdy Tree Farms
• Adopt A Christmas Tree
• Xmas Tree Country
• PB Pumpkin Patch
• Waynes World of Trees & Pumpkin Patch
• Green Gardens Nursery
• Valley View Christmas Trees
• Pinery Christmas Trees
• Pinery Christmas Trees

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree can take some patience, practice and good advice. Here are a few things to note, from 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