Where To Buy A Christmas Tree In The Safety Harbor Area

Safety Harbor, FL — It should 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 coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

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.. And despite these unprecedented times, the tradition will continue this year. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as COVID-19 cases rise to ensure patrons can select a tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has developed a new 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. An onsite "COVID-19 coordinator" and social-distancing rules are also being encouraged.

"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 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."

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 Safety Harbor area.

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

Want to get the most out of your real Christmas tree? It 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