Christmas Tree Shopping In The San Clemente Area? Find Local Farms

San Clemente, CA — As the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic threatens a long list of 2020’s iconic holiday traditions, it may still be possible to find the perfect Christmas tree for your family this year — and do it safely.

At least 25 million real Christmas trees are purchased 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 as the COVID-19 pandemic worsens to ensure patrons can select a tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has developed 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.

"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 association said in its guide. "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."

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? Here's a selection of great tree farms in the San Clemente area.

• Farmakis Farms
• Peltzer Nursery
• The Vineyard 1924
• Peltzer Pines - Silverado
• Pumpkin & Polar Palooza
• Cherry Creek Farm - Christmas Trees
• Purdy Tree Farms
• Tanaka Farms
• Elias Christmas Tree Farm
• Tom's Farms

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