#United States #Christmas Tree #Howell #Real Trees #Holiday Tradition

Real Christmas Trees: A Seasonal Tradition

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of finding the perfect real Christmas tree is palpable among festive shoppers. This year, expectations remain high with 90% of last year’s tree buyers stating they found their desired tree immediately upon visiting a retailer. According to Marsha Gray, Executive Director of the Real Christmas Tree Board, the supply of real Christmas trees is abundant, ensuring that every shopper, from traditionalists to last-minute buyers, can find a tree that fits their holiday spirit.

Widespread Abundance

Real Christmas trees are grown across all states in the U.S., with Oregon, North Carolina, and Michigan standing out as the largest producers. The geographical diversity of these farms means that even if one area faces challenges, there are still plenty of trees available from other regions. This characteristic helps maintain a steady supply even during peak shopping days, including Christmas Eve—when many shoppers still opt for the evergreen experience.

Understanding the Tree Buyers

Last year’s surveys revealed an intriguing breakdown of when consumers traditionally buy their Christmas trees:

• - Pre-Season Achievers: 14% bought before Thanksgiving.
• - Black Friday Checklisters: 33% chose their trees during the weekend after Thanksgiving.
• - Seasonal Purists: 33% bought in the first week of December.
• - Mid-Decemberists: 16% made their selections in the second week.
• - Treecrastinators: 3% went shopping in the third week of December.
• - Christmas Eve Traditionalists: 1% awaited the last minute.

Regardless of when shoppers decide to buy, satisfaction is high. In fact, a remarkable 91% of real tree purchasers last year reported they were pleased with their buying experience—a testament to the joy these trees bring.

Tips for Tree Buyers

Both seasoned tree aficionados and first-time buyers can benefit from straightforward tips provided by the Real Christmas Tree Board:
1. Choosing the Right Size: When selecting a tree at a retailer, remember that trees might appear smaller outdoors. Measure your ceiling height and ensure the tree fits comfortably in your home.
2. Request Fresh Cuts: Once you've selected your tree, ask for a fresh cut at the base of the trunk; this helps the tree absorb water effectively. If available, utilize a tree shaker to remove any dead needles and ensure a fresher look.
3. Home Care: Water your Christmas tree immediately and regularly. A well-hydrated tree will look vibrant and maintain its delightful aroma throughout the season.
4. Post-Season Recycling: Remember that real Christmas trees are 100% recyclable and biodegradable. Check your local city or county website for details on tree recycling programs.

The Mission of the Real Christmas Tree Board

Founded as a national research and promotion program in 2015, the Real Christmas Tree Board aims to inform consumers about the advantages of choosing a farm-grown Christmas tree. Renamed in 2022, the board continues promoting fresh Christmas trees while conducting research to better serve both customers and growers.

The industry is governed by the USDA, ensuring communication accuracy and transparency. Additionally, the Real Christmas Tree Board is backed by assessments from businesses involved in growing or importing significant numbers of real trees, strengthening its influence in promoting genuine Christmas traditions.

For those looking to locate a retailer or learn more about maintaining their trees, RealChristmasTrees.com offers a host of resources including tree types, care tips, and a retail locator.

Conclusion

Whether you are a seasonal purist or someone who waits until the last minute, finding a real Christmas tree has become an enjoyable part of the holiday tradition in many households. As the season unfolds, embrace the excitement and joy of selecting a tree that embodies your family’s unique spirit. Visit local farms and retailers to discover your special tree this holiday season—because there’s always a real Christmas tree waiting for you.