Sayville-Bayport Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Sayville-Bayport, NY — It could 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 ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

Did you know that at least 25 million real Christmas trees are sold each year across America, and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 U.S. states? And despite these unprecedented times, the tree market is still up and running this year. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure buyers can take home their ideal tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has circulated a special guide containing 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.

"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 association wrote on its website. "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."

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, here's a selection of great local farms within driving distance of Sayville-Bayport.

• Sabia Tree Farm
• Dart's Christmas Tree Farm
• Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm
• Lewin Farms
• Santas Christmas Tree Farm
• Reynolds Farms Nurseries
• Elwood Pumpkin Farm
• Jones Family Farm - Valley Farm
• Carter Christmas Tree Farm
• Mike's Tree Farm

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