Christmas Tree Farms In The West Des Moines Area: Your 2020 Guide

West Des Moines, IA — As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most quintessential holiday traditions in 2020, it might still be possible to hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this year — and do it safely.

Did you know that 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 during this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure patrons can select their perfect tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has developed a special guide containing recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree providers 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.

Tree lot operators and choose-and-cut farms "must protect the health and safety of their employees, provide customers with the confidence they need so they can enjoy selecting a tree without risk and demonstrate to state and local officials they are conducting business responsibly," the association wrote in its guide.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, see our selection of trusted local farms near West Des Moines.

• Miller Tree Farm
• Northwoods Evergreen Tree Lot
• Hill's Tree Farm
• Rettig's Tree Farm
• Howell Tree Farm

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree takes a bit of patience and practice. Here are a few things to note, 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