Sweet Grown Alabama Blogs

As the holiday season rolls around, one of the most cherished traditions is decorating the Christmas tree. Whether you prefer a classic green fir or a more unique variety, choosing the right tree is a big decision. Have you ever thought about where your Christmas tree comes from? While it may be tempting (and convenient) to put up that artificial tree, there are many reasons why buying a local Christmas tree is a choice that benefits not just you, but your community and the environment as well.

"A farm-fresh Christmas tree just makes scents (pun intended)," said David Howard of Howard Family Holiday Farm in Moody. "An artificial tree doesn't give you that farm-fresh smell, nor do they support the local churches, charities and schools like your local farmers do. I always tell everyone, live Christmas trees make beautiful memories and they literally make perfect scents."

When you purchase a local Christmas tree, you're directly supporting your local economy. Small family-owned farms that sell Christmas trees often rely on this seasonal income, which helps sustain their businesses year-round. Whether they grow their trees or run a Christmas tree lot, these farms and vendors are part of the fabric of your community. Howard emphasized how Christmas tree farms offer more than just a tree, but they provide you and your family an opportunity to make memories that will last forever. There's nothing better than marking a day on your calendar when you gather your family for that cherished outing. That annual pilgrimage to search for the next perfect tree creates real excitement, and the time spent with your loved ones is priceless. 

"Every dollar that you spend at a local farm, like ours, helps sustain that farm through the next season,"  Howard said.

Buying from a local seller also means more of your money stays within the community. These farmers often hire seasonal workers, sponsor community events, and support other local businesses, creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone in the area.

One of the most important reasons to buy a local Christmas tree is freshness. Local farms typically cut their trees within days of being sold, meaning they’re much fresher than trees that are shipped in from out-of-state. The freshness of a local tree translates to a fuller, longer-lasting tree, with healthier needles and a more vibrant appearance.

In contrast, trees that have traveled long distances often face the risk of drying out more quickly, losing needles, or not looking as fresh by Christmas Day. When you buy local, you're ensuring a tree that will stay beautiful and fragrant throughout the holiday season.

Choosing a local Christmas tree is a more environmentally friendly option. Christmas trees are grown specifically for harvesting, and farms plant new trees each year, making the industry a sustainable form of agriculture. Plus, they play a role in carbon sequestration, as growing trees help absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

When you buy a tree that was grown close to home, you're also reducing the environmental cost of transportation. Trees shipped from other states or countries must be transported by truck, plane, or even boat, which adds significant carbon emissions to the process. By purchasing locally, you’re cutting down on the environmental impact and supporting a more sustainable approach to the holiday season.

Buying a local tree can also help foster a deeper connection to your community and family. Many tree farms offer a hands-on experience where kids and kids at heart can learn that products are grown in the ground and don't just appear at the store. Some farms even host events like hayrides, petting zoos, or hot cocoa stands, making it a festive outing for all ages.

These experiences help create lasting memories and traditions, strengthening bonds within the community. It’s a fun way to support local businesses and make the holiday season feel even more special.

"We love to see the happiness that our farm brings to our customers," said Ginger Duncan, owner Neely Farms Christmas Trees in Thorsby. "Whether they are cutting their tree, taking pictures, watching their kids ride in the barrel cart, or just sipping on hot cocoa, it's all about spending quality time with family and friends!"

At the heart of it, purchasing a local Christmas tree is about creating a more personal, meaningful holiday experience. It’s about supporting the local people who work hard to bring that Christmas spirit to life. It’s about the excitement of choosing a tree that was grown just down the road, not halfway across the country.

Many tree farms, such as Neely Farms Christmas Trees, offer additional local products such as wreaths, garlands, and ornaments made by nearby artisans. Duncan described shopping with them as not only picking out a tree but also supporting a variety of local craftspeople, making your holiday decorations unique and reflective of the community.

Purchasing a local Christmas tree is a simple choice with big impact. When you choose a local Christmas tree, you're not just picking out a decoration for your home—you're making a choice that benefits the environment, your community and your economy. From fresh, sustainable trees to supporting local farmers and businesses, there are countless reasons why purchasing a local Christmas tree is a win-win.

So, this holiday season, when you're searching for that perfect tree, remember that the local option is more than just a tree—it's a way to support the traditions, people, and values that make your community special. Plus, you'll enjoy a beautiful, fresh tree that’s good for the planet and great for your holiday cheer.

Howard Family Holiday Farm is located at 3706 Moody Parkway, Moody, Alabama. They open for the Christmas season on Friday, November 22. For more information, visit their Facebook page. 

Neely Farms Christmas Trees is located at 275 Dakota Road, Thorsby, Alabama. They open for the Christmas season on Friday, November 29. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

Sweet Grown Alabama is proud to partner with the South Christmas Tree Growers Association. Learn more about Alabama Christmas tree farms here.