Christmas Tree Farms Near Silver Spring: Your 2020 Guide

Silver Spring, MD — As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most iconic holiday traditions in 2020, it may still be possible to find the ideal Christmas tree for your family this year — and more importantly, do it safely.

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 during this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as COVID-19 cases rise to ensure locals can select their favorite tree with minimal health and safety risk.

"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 the National Christmas Tree Association said on its website this year. "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."

In fact, the association has circulated a 2020 guide with 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.

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? Here's a selection of trusted tree farms within driving distance of Silver Spring.

• Almost Heavenly Christmas Trees
• DePaul's Urban Farm
• Meadows Farms Nurseries - Germantown
• Almost Heavenly Christmas Trees
• Meadows Farms Nurseries - Burtonsville
• Whitehall Farms
• Homestead Farm
• Chesapeake Bay Foundation Clagett Farm
• Payne Christmas Trees
• Butler's Orchard

Want to get the most out of your real Christmas tree? It can take a bit of patience and practice. Here are a few tips to remember, 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