Queens Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Queens, NY — It might still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this holiday season — and most importantly, 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. During this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions amid the worsening coronavirus pandemic to ensure locals can select their perfect tree with minimal risk to their family's health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has released a special guide full of recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree providers to follow, including frequently sanitizing items such as hand saws and tree cart handles, as well as countertops, restrooms and other areas. Maximum head counts and personal protective equipment for employees are also being encouraged.

"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 said 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."

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? Here's a selection of trusted local farms in the Queens area.

• Kevin's Christmas Tree Lot
• Cedar Grove Christmas Trees
• Tree Riders NYC
• Hudson County Christmas Trees
• Tyler's Trees
• Romp Family Christmas Trees
• Gopher Broke Farm
• NYC Trees
• Egan Acres Tree Farm
• NYC Trees

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 know, 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