Looking for a cut Christmas tree? Here’s where to find one at major California retailers
Getting ready for Christmas?
If you’re looking for a live, cut Christmas tree, several major retailers across California have you covered.
Here’s where you can pick up one:
Which retailers sell live Christmas trees?
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market offers fresh cut Christmas trees at select California locations, but only while supplies last, according to an emailed statement from the company.
“Customers can contact their local store for information and to purchase,” the company said.
Tractor Supply Co.
Cut Christmas trees are available at all Tractor Supply Co. Garden Center locations and select additional stores, according to an emailed statement from the company.
Customers can visit the company’s website to locate the nearest store offering trees.
The Home Depot
According to an emailed statement from the company, The Home Depot offers cut Christmas trees.
“As for when they go on sale, this varies by location,” the company wrote. “We recommend customers check with their local store.”
To purchase a cut Christmas tree, customers must visit their nearest Home Depot location.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s sells live cut Christmas trees, according to its website.
Customers can check with their nearest Lowe’s location for pricing and availability.
How to choose a Christmas tree
According to The Home Depot’s website, customers should choose a tree with “a bright, vibrant coloring.”
“Most types of Christmas trees that are freshly cut usually last between four and six weeks, so be careful not to purchase too early,” the website says. “Sometime around Thanksgiving is ideal.”
Before buying your tree, measure both the height and width of the space where you plan to place it. This ensures a proper fit and leaves enough room for your tree topper.
Here are some expert tips from The Home Depot for choosing the perfect tree:
- Look for fresh, vibrant needles.
- Gently shake the tree. Some needle loss is normal, but the majority should stay intact.
- Check the bark on outer twigs and branches. Withered bark indicates excessive dryness.
- Fresh fir needles should snap crisply when bent.
- Inspect the tree for insects or pests.
- If you plan to hang heavy ornaments, test the strength of the branches by lightly pulling on them.
- Ensure your tree fits the stand, which should hold at least 1 quart of water for every inch of trunk diameter.
How to care for a live Christmas tree
When deciding where to place your live Christmas tree, The Home Depot said to choose a cool, draft-free spot away from heat sources including vents, fireplaces and appliances.
This will help the tree retain moisture and stay fresh longer.
At the time of purchase, the tree’s trunk should be trimmed by an inch or two to improve water absorption.
Once home, The Home Depot said to be sure to place the tree in water within an hour of trimming to ensure it stays hydrated and healthy throughout the season.
“Trees can consume as much as a gallon or more of water per day, depending on the type and size of the tree,” the website says. “Make sure your stand has enough depth to keep the base of the trunk submerged in water at all times.”
According to The Home Depot, here are some tips for caring for your live Christmas tree:
- Check the water level daily to ensure the base of the tree is always submerged.
- Water your tree with plain tap water, avoiding any additives for the best results.
- If you have a tree with a root system, keep it indoors for no more than three to 10 days.
- In colder areas, let the tree to adjust by placing it in a cool space, such as a garage, before bringing it inside.
- At the end of the season, recycle your real Christmas tree through your local community program.
This story was originally published November 29, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
