North Carolina Christmas Trees: A Tradition That Helps Farmers Recover
A favorite holiday tradition for many Sampson County families is making the trek to the mountains to pick out a fresh, North Carolina grown Christmas tree. If this isn’t already part of your holiday season, this year is the perfect time to start a new tradition; one that supports local farmers still recovering from Hurricane Helene while bringing home the scent and spirit of Christmas.
According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, there are more than 40 registered “Choose & Cut” farms across the mountain region. These farms offer a one-of-a-kind experience for families as they wander through rows of perfectly shaped trees, searching for the one that fits just right. You can find a complete list of farms at ncchristmastrees.com.
The Fraser fir remains the undisputed favorite, accounting for over 99 percent of all Christmas trees grown in North Carolina—about 40,000 acres in total. Its rich color, strong branches, and long-lasting needles have made it America’s top-selling Christmas tree for decades. Depending on the farm, you might also come across white pine, Colorado blue spruce, or Concolor fir.
This year, many mountain farms are facing new challenges. Hurricane Helene brought record rainfall and flooding to parts of western North Carolina last year, damaging roads, washing out fields, and leaving behind debris that may still be making harvest difficult. While most farms remain open, every tree purchased helps support the recovery of these hard-working growers who depend on the holiday season to make their living. Buying local truly makes a difference this year.
Before heading out, take a few minutes to plan. Measure the space where the tree will go and remember to check your ceiling height—stories of “too-tall trees” are more common than you think. Also, consider whether your tree will be viewed from one side or all sides; a premium-grade tree looks great from every angle, while a standard-grade tree may be better suited for a corner.
Once you’ve found the perfect tree, keeping it fresh is key:- Make a fresh cut: Remove about an inch from the trunk before placing the tree in water.
- Hydrate often: A tree can take up a gallon of water in the first day or two. Refill the stand daily. Skip the “tree preservatives” clean water works best.
- Keep it cool: Place your tree away from fireplaces, vents, and heaters to prevent drying.
- Use safe lights: Choose LED lights that give off less heat and turn them off when leaving home or going to bed.
Whether you drive to the mountains or purchase a tree from a store here in Sampson County, choosing a real North Carolina Christmas tree helps farm families and preserves one of the most cherished holiday traditions in our state. This year, your tree can represent more than just Christmas spirit; it can also be a symbol of resilience and support for our farmers still rebuilding after Hurricane Helene.
