Christmas Tree Shopping In The Wheaton Area? Find Local Farms

Wheaton, MD — As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic threatens a long list of 2020’s beloved holiday traditions, it might still be possible to hunt for the perfect Christmas tree — and even more importantly, do it safely.

At least 25 million real Christmas trees are sold each year across America, and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 U.S. states. And despite these unprecedented times, the tree market is still up and running this 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 favorite tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has created a 2020 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.

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 on its website.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, here's a selection of great tree farms within driving distance of Wheaton.

• Puckerville Farms
• Poor Bob's Tree Land
• Platt Hill Nursery
• Anderson Tree Farm
• L & M Tree Farm
• Hacker's Glenbard Gardens
• L & M Tree Farm
• Murphy's Christmas Trees
• Abbey Farms
• Poor Bob's Tree Land

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