With Christmas coming up and the search for a better or new tree comes to mind there are plenty of ways to save money when shopping for one. There are many to chose from whether you prefer the fresh-cut smell of Fraser fir or choose a no-fuss artificial.
These following tips will ensure that you land a tree for less.
1. Look for an artificial one
Cost wise an artificial tree will be your most economical option.
Shoppers paid an average of $75 for a live tree versus $107 for a new artificial tree in 2017, according to a survey from the National Christmas Tree Association, a trade group that represents the live Christmas tree industry. So, an artificial tree pays for itself after two seasons.
Going with an artificial tree will also give you more options, particularly if you buy it online. Just take a look at the selection at Amazon, for example.
2. You can cut your own!
If you’re willing to put your wheels on the road with rope and a saw then head on to your local nursery or tree farm and find the best deal on many real live trees.
The U.S. Forest Service issues permits to harvest trees for use as indoors at Christmas. For example, holiday tree permits from Oregon’s Mt. Hood National Forest are only $5. One permit lets you cut one tree that is up to 12 feet tall.
Contact your nearest forest to ask about your options.
3. Pick a popular species
While all Christmas tree varieties offer unique and desirable features, you’ll likely get the best deal on more popular picks.
For example, the Douglas fir is one of the top Christmas tree species, thanks to its pleasant aroma and bountiful branches. At a farm in Pennsylvania, the wholesale price for an 8- to 10-foot Douglas fir is $36. Compare that to $50 for a concolor fir, a variety more often used to make furniture than to decorate during the holidays.
4. Try negotiating a better offer
Negotiating is not out of the question at a tree lot.
If you fall in love with a tree that’s slightly out of your price range, make an offer on it. Or make an offer simply because you have nothing to lose by trying. Maybe there’s an awkward gap in the branches or minor discoloration you can leverage.
5. Get a size that will fit your home
You’ll do best picking the smallest tree for your home.
Cut-your-own farms like Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm in Belvidere, New Jersey, charge per foot. Even pre-cut trees are priced based on size. So, if you can settle on a 6- or 7-footer or smaller, you stand to save significantly.
6. Hold out for a while
Grocery stores and once-vacant parking lots start to fill with Christmas trees in early November. But some sellers have been known to slash prices as the holiday draws near.
7. Shop after the holidays
If you’re considering an artificial tree, timing is everything. January is a great time to stock up on Christmas decorations, including trees — with clearance deals ranging from 50 to 85 percent off.
