Christmas Tree Farms In The St. Pete Area: Your 2020 Guide

St. Pete, FL — As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most iconic holiday traditions in 2020, it might still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the right Christmas tree — and more importantly, do it safely.

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 shoppers can select their perfect tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has circulated a 2020 guide full of recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree sellers to follow. The guide advises sellers to frequently sanitize items such as hand saws and tree cart handles, as well as countertops, restrooms and other areas. Special signage and social-distancing rules are also being encouraged.

"We highly encourage growers to use these recommendations to develop strategies to protect their workers and customers," the association said in its guide, and "wholesale growers should share the recommendations for tree lots with their customers. Having a COVID-19 plan for your business is an imperative."

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this season, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms in the St. Pete area.

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

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 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