The Best Time to Buy a Real Christmas Tree, According to Tree Farmers

When it comes to holiday decorating, nothing compares to the charm of a Christmas tree. As the centerpiece of any room, it transforms the space into a festive haven, radiating holiday spirit.

If you are purchasing a cut Christmas tree, it's essential to know when the right time to buy one is. From finding the best price to ensuring your tree lasts as long as possible, a little planning goes a long way in selecting the perfect tree.

Ahead, Christmas tree experts share their top tips for choosing the ideal tree that aligns with your festive goals, including what to avoid, to ensure your tree experience is smooth and enjoyable.

The Best Time to Buy Based on Your Priorities

Everyone has unique goals for their Christmas tree. Some people prefer a tree that remains vibrant and lasts for months, while others are more inclined to buy when prices are best. Here, Len Price, co-owner of Nutkin Knoll Farm, shares his top tips to help you choose the best tree to match your personal preferences.

For the Best Selection

Generally, the best time to buy a Christmas tree is early in the season, from Thanksgiving to the first week of December. Shopping during this time offers a wide selection of high-quality trees. That said, if you do buy your tree at this time, Price says proper care is required to ensure your tree lasts until the New Year. 

For the Best Price

Tree farm prices typically stay the same throughout the season, says Price. "The unharvested trees continue to grow again next growing season," he says. However, prices can vary depending on where you buy your tree. In some areas, the highest prices are typically seen in the weeks following Thanksgiving when demand is at its peak, and they gradually decrease as the season progresses. To better plan your trip, consider calling your local Christmas tree lots or farms to ask about their prices.

How to Choose the Best Tree

Visiting a local Christmas tree farm is a wonderful way to ensure you get the freshest tree possible, especially since you can cut it down yourself on the same day. Whether you're choosing from a farm or a lot, these expert tips will help you and your family select the perfect tree.

Examine the Needles

Before selecting a pre-cut tree, Molly Jimerson, owner of Piper Mountain Christmas Tree Farm, recommends running your hands down the length of the branch and gently tugging it. "The needles should be soft, flexible, and vibrant green. If they're brittle, browning, or falling off, look for a different tree," she says. 

Check the Harvest Date

Harvest dates directly impact the tree's freshness and longevity. If you get a tree from a lot, it's not as easy to know when it was cut, says Jimerson, but don't be afraid to ask. "Lot owners should be happy to share the harvest date so that you can make an informed purchase," she says. A tree cut more recently will stay vibrant and retain its needles longer.

How to Make Your Tree Last Longer

While most trees should last through the holiday season with care and regular watering, there are some helpful tips to keep in mind to ensure longevity.

Provide Adequate Water

Providing sufficient water is the most crucial aspect of maintaining your tree's health throughout the holidays. Once you get your tree home, Jimerson recommends getting it into water as soon as possible. "When you have your tree set up in its tree stand, always keep the base covered with water, and do not let water go below the base of the trunk," says Jimerson. "People are often surprised by how quickly trees drink water, especially in the first few days, so set a reminder to keep replenishing the water."

Proper Tree Placement

Setting your tree close to your fireplace or heater will cause it to dry out much faster. "I always recommend displaying your tree in a location away from heat sources," Jimerson says. Placing your tree too close to a heat source can also become a fire hazard, so intentional placement is important.

Run a Humidifier

If you live in an arid climate or you have your tree in the same room as a fireplace, consider running a humidifier near your tree, says Jimerson. This will ensure your tree lasts longer and prevents it from drying out. 

Trim the Stump

When buying a pre-cut tree, Jimerson notes that it is always important to cut a quarter to a half inch off the bottom of the stump. "That will remove the sap seal that formed in transit, and ensure your tree can soak up water, keeping it fresh for as long as possible." You can also save the little “puck” that is cut from the tree for festive decorations. "That little puck you cut from your tree makes a great handmade ornament to remember that year's Christmas tree, so be sure to bring it home for crafting."

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Common Mistakes When Buying a Real Tree

Choosing a Christmas tree is an exciting part of the holiday season, but buyers often encounter common pitfalls that can be avoided with some preplanning.

• Not measuring your space: Before you go shopping for a tree, Jimerson recommends measuring the room where you plan to place it. Trees often look smaller in a field or tree lot, and many people are surprised when they get home to find that the tree is too big. 
• Buying a wrapped tree: While trees are easier to transport when wrapped, avoid buying one that is pre-wrapped, as this prevents you from properly examining it. Once unwrapped at home, the tree might be too wide or of poor quality.
• Not acclimating the tree: Christmas trees thrive in cold weather, so it's important to acclimate them before bringing them directly into a warm home. To properly transition the tree, leave it in a cool area such as a porch, shed, or utility room for a few days, then bring it inside.