Providence Christmas Tree Farm Guide For 2020

Providence, RI — As the COVID-19 pandemic threatens a long list of 2020’s quintessential holiday traditions, it may still be possible to find the perfect Christmas tree for your family 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 during this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic to ensure locals can take home their perfect tree with minimal health and safety risk.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has circulated a new guide containing recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree providers to follow, including frequently sanitizing items and areas such as hand saws, tree cart handles, countertops, door handles and restrooms.

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

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, here's a selection of great local farms near Providence.

• Big John Leyden's Tree Farm
• Mike's Tree Farm
• Greene Christmas Tree Farm
• Leyden Farm Vineyard & Winery
• Henry's Christmas Tree Farm
• Lockwood Christmas Tree Farm
• Sleighbell Christmas Tree Farm & Gift Barn
• Packard Farm
• Ebenezer's Tree Farm
• Fraser Orchard and 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 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