Christmas Tree Shopping Near Manchester? Find Local Farms

Manchester, NJ — As the coronavirus pandemic threatens some of America's most quintessential holiday traditions in 2020, it may still be possible to hunt for the right Christmas tree this year — and do it safely.

Did you know that at least 25 million real Christmas trees are purchased each year across America, and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 U.S. states? And despite these unprecedented times, the tradition will continue in 2020. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as COVID-19 cases rise to ensure buyers can take home a tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

"We highly encourage growers to use these recommendations to develop strategies to protect their workers and customers," the the National Christmas Tree Association wrote on its website this year, and "wholesale growers should share the recommendations for tree lots with their customers. Having a COVID-19 plan for your business is an imperative."

In fact, the association has circulated a new guide full of recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree sellers to follow, including frequently sanitizing items and areas such as hand saws, tree cart handles, countertops, door handles and restrooms.

If a real Christmas tree is on your holiday wish list in 2020, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms within driving distance of Manchester.

• Argos Farm
• McLaughlin Tree Farm - Christmas Trees & Nursery
• Chesterfield Christmas Trees
• Edwards' Christmas Tree Farm
• Keris Christmas Tree Farm
• Foggy Bottom Farms
• Mansfield Christmas Tree Farm
• Bear Swamp Christmas Tree Farm
• Conover's Farm Christmas Tree Farm

Want to get the most out of your real Christmas tree? It can take some patience, practice and good advice. Here are a few things 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