Christmas Tree Shopping In The North Branford Area? Here's A Local Guide

North Branford, CT — As the coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most beloved holiday traditions in 2020, it could still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the ideal Christmas tree this year — and do it safely.

Did you know that at least 25 million real Christmas trees are sold each year across the U.S., and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 states.? During this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the coronavirus pandemic to ensure patrons can select a tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has created a 2020 guide with recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree sellers to follow, including frequently sanitizing items and areas such as hand saws, tree cart handles, countertops, door handles and restrooms.

"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 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 this year, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms in the North Branford area.

• Dolan Christmas Tree Farm
• Geremia Farms
• Broken Arrow Nursery
• Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Farm
• Schrempp's Christmas Tree Farm
• Miller Tree
• Oak Ridge Tree Farm
• Dart's Christmas Tree Farm
• Beaumont farm
• Broken Arrow Nursery 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 things to know, 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