Christmas Tree Shopping In The East Islip Area? Find Local Farms

East Islip, NY — It could still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree in 2020 — and most importantly, to do it safely, even as the ongoing coronavirus 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.. During this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as COVID-19 cases rise to ensure buyers can select a tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

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 the National Christmas Tree Association wrote on its website this year.

In fact, the association has developed a special guide full of 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.

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? See our selection of quality tree farms in the East Islip area.

• Hicks Nurseries
• Carter Christmas Tree Farm
• Elwood Pumpkin Farm
• Mike's Tree Farm
• Lewin Farms
• Reynolds Farms Nurseries

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