Ellington-Somers Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Ellington-Somers, CT — As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most beloved holiday traditions in 2020, it should still be possible to find the perfect Christmas tree for your family this year — 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? 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 patrons can take home their ideal tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has circulated a special guide including 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 wrote on its website. "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."

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list in 2020, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms in the Ellington-Somers area.

• Rose's Berry Farm
• Silver Bell Farm
• Cedar Ledge Tree Farm
• Breezy View Farm
• Squire Farm
• Grimaldi Christmas Tree Farm

Want to get the most out of your real Christmas tree? It can take a bit of patience and practice. Here are a few tips to remember, 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