Christmas Tree Shopping Near Plant City? Find Local Farms

Plant City, FL — It may still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree in 2020 — and most importantly, to do it safely, even as the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

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. And 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 risk to their health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has released a 2020 guide including 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 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 this season, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms near Plant City.

• Dave's Christmas Tree Lot
• Hydro Harvest Farms
• Great Lakes Christmas Tree Farms
• Ergle Christmas Tree Farm
• Tampa Bay Farmers Market
• Christmas Tree Shops

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