Middlesex Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Middlesex, NJ — It might still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree in 2020 — and to do it safely, even as the coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

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 despite these unprecedented times, the tree market is still up and running this holiday season. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure shoppers can select a tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

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

In fact, the association has circulated a new guide with 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.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year, see our selection of great local farms near Middlesex.

• Wolgast Christmas Tree Farm
• Stable Roots Farm
• Harris Farm
• Great Swamp Greenhouses
• John and Joan's Road Stand
• Bountiful Gardens

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, from 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