Where To Find Christmas Trees In 2020 Near Hopatcong-Sparta

Hopatcong-Sparta, NJ — It should still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this year — and to do it safely, even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

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 take home a tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

"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 special guide including recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree providers to follow, including frequently sanitizing items and areas such as hand saws, tree cart handles, countertops, door handles and restrooms. Maximum head counts and touchless, paperless payment systems are also being encouraged.

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

• Shale Hills farm
• Timber Valley Tree Farm
• Stonerow Tree Farm
• Cerbo's Garden Center
• Country Heritage Farm

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree can take some patience, practice and good advice. Here are a few tips to remember, 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