Christmas Tree Shopping Near New Brunswick? Find Local Farms

New Brunswick, NJ — It might still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this holiday season — 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 despite these unprecedented times, the tree market is still up and running this holiday season. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure buyers can take home a tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

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

"We highly encourage growers to use these recommendations to develop strategies to protect their workers and customers," the association said in its guide, and "wholesale growers should share the recommendations for tree lots with their customers. Having a COVID-19 plan for your business is an imperative."

An onsite "COVID-19 coordinator" and touchless, paperless payment systems are also being encouraged at the farms.

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? See our selection of great local farms near New Brunswick.

• McLaughlin Tree Farm - Christmas Trees & Nursery
• John and Joan's Road Stand
• Creekside Farm
• Harris Farm
• Wolgast Christmas Tree Farm
• Stable Roots Farm
• Barclay's Tree Farm
• Sigismondi Farms
• Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm
• Fairview Farm

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