Christmas tree prices rise due to higher fertilizer, fuel costs

(NBCTY) – With the holidays officially underway, many Americans will be getting into the spirit with a symbol of the season – a Christmas tree.

Selecting a tree together is part of a family tradition for many.

At the Pine Valley Tree Farm in Maryland, the Underwood family has been planting and selling trees for over seven decades.

Joncie Underwood, co-owner of Pine Valley Christmas Tree Farm, said, “This is the best time of the year for me because I get to see customers who’ve been coming here for 40, 50 years.”

But like so many other things this year, inflation is impacting their pricing, and they have to pass it on to customers.

“Fertilizer has doubled and tripled and quadrupled. Obviously fuel costs have gone up tremendously, so that all affects your bottom line, as well as labor cost,” Underwood said.

The Real Christmas Tree Board estimates prices are up between 5% and 15% this holiday season.

“The retail price of a Christmas tree is going to vary widely by geographic location, and most importantly, how far you are from a major Christmas tree production area,” said Marsha Gray, executive director of the Real Christmas Tree Board.

To get the best deal when selecting a tree, keep species in mind. Douglas firs and pine varieties are usually more affordable.

Also try to shop early in the season for the best selection and compare prices.

However, the number one tip to save? Don’t buy too much tree.

“Save room for several inches for the Christmas tree stand, and you can buy the tree that’s the right size,” Gray said.

For everyone who celebrates the season, it’s the Christmas spirit that brings people together.

Underwood added, “You can see how excited they are to be picking out their Christmas tree and how excited they are when they find their perfect tree for themselves.”