Where To Find A Christmas Tree In The Tarpon Springs Area

Tarpon Springs, FL — As the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic threatens a long list of 2020’s quintessential holiday traditions, it may still be possible to take your family on a hunt for the right Christmas tree — and do it safely.

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 during this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as COVID-19 cases rise to ensure locals can take home a tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

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

In fact, the association has developed a new guide with 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. An onsite "COVID-19 coordinator" and personal protective equipment for employees are also being encouraged.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, here's a selection of quality local farms in the Tarpon Springs area.

• Dave's Christmas Tree Lot
• Great Lakes Christmas Tree Farms
• Hydro Harvest Farms
• Tampa Bay Farmers Market
• Ergle Christmas Tree Farm

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