Westwood-Hillsdale Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Westwood-Hillsdale, NJ — As the COVID-19 pandemic threatens some of America's most beloved holiday traditions in 2020, it should still be possible to take your family on a hunt for the perfect Christmas tree — and most importantly, do it safely.

Did you know that 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 coronavirus cases rise to ensure patrons can take home their ideal tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has developed a special guide full of 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. An onsite "COVID-19 coordinator" and touchless, paperless payment systems are also being encouraged.

If a real Christmas tree is on your holiday wish list this year, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms near Westwood-Hillsdale.

• Anthony Gallo Landscaping & Nursery
• Cleatus Farms
• Urban Garden Center
• DePiero's Farm Stand & Greenhouses
• Rohsler's Allendale Nursery
• Cedar Grove Christmas Trees
• Egan Acres Tree Farm

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree takes a bit of patience and practice. Here are a few tips to remember, 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