Orange Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Orange, CT — As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most beloved holiday traditions in 2020, it could still be possible to hunt for the perfect Christmas tree — and most importantly, do it safely.

At least 25 million real Christmas trees are purchased each year across the U.S., and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 states.. And despite these unprecedented times, the practice will continue this holiday season. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure buyers can take home their favorite tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

"We highly encourage growers to use these recommendations to develop strategies to protect their workers and customers," the the National Christmas Tree Association wrote on its website this year, and "wholesale growers should share the recommendations for tree lots with their customers. Having a COVID-19 plan for your business is an imperative."

In fact, the association has created a special guide containing 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.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this season, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms within driving distance of Orange.

• Jones Family Farm - Valley Farm
• Plasko's Farm
• Filanowski Farms
• Broken Arrow Nursery Tree Farm
• Fairview Tree Farm

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