Elgin Christmas Tree Farm Guide For 2020

Elgin, IL — As the COVID-19 pandemic threatens some of America's most iconic holiday traditions in 2020, it should still be possible to find the right Christmas tree for your family this year — 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 tree market is still up and running in 2020. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the coronavirus pandemic to ensure shoppers can select a tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

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

"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."

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? Here's a selection of quality local farms within driving distance of Elgin.

• Ziegler Christmas Tree Farm
• Dave's Pumpkins
• The Fields on Caton Farm
• Hacker's Glenbard Gardens
• Norton Farm Landscape & Supply

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, 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