Still looking for the perfect Christmas tree this holiday season? There are a variety of locations throughout Cortland County where you can find a tree for your home, whether at the farm or in a lot filled with freshly-cut trees. Before deciding the best location for you, check out these simple tree-hunting tips.
Measure carefully before you pick a tree. Carefully measure where the tree will be going before heading to the tree farm. Leave a minimum of six inches between the top of your tree and the ceiling, or if you plan to add a tree topper, allow at least 12 inches. Don't forget the bring the tape measurer to the farm as well!
Check the tree's freshness. Try to find a tree that is deep green with no brown in sight. Bend a pine needle in half with your fingers; fresh firs should snap, while fresh pines bend and should not break.
Make sure the tree is not already shedding. No one wants a tree that sheds everywhere. Too many fallen needles, while it is on display in the lot, is probably a sign of an unhealthy Christmas tree. Gently grab the inside of a branch and pull your hand toward you. The needs should stay on the tree.
Check underneath the tree. Check out the bottom of your potential tree for signs of decay. A fresh trunk should have a slight stickiness to it.
Call the locations below first or check the location’s website or Facebook page before heading out, as supplies of mature trees ready for cutting may be limited.
DOG HOLLOW CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
5932 Dog Hollow Road Cuyler,
(607) 842-6890
Pick the perfect tree from over 300 rolling, scenic acres. Open Saturday & Sunday, every weekend through Christmas. Weather permitting, you just might find a horse-drawn sleigh and hot cocoa the first two weekends of December.
ANDERSON'S FARM MARKET
5887 State Rt. 281, Homer NY
(607) 749-5551
Find fresh-cut local Christmas trees and wreaths. While you're there, grab a quart of egg nog and a pie for a tree-trimming snack! They are open Monday through Saturday, 8am - 4pm and Sunday, 10:30am - 4pm.
HILL OF BEAN'S CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
Chapman Road, Cortland NY
(607) 345-4199
This family-owned traditional tree farm offers u-cut, pre-cut trees and custom wreaths. There's a craft corner for the kiddies and endless photo ops. Don't forget to walk through the decorated tree tunnel! They are open on weekends through December 11.
LIME HOLLOW NATURE CENTER
338 McLean Road, Cortland NY
(607) 662-4632
Stop by Lime Hollow Nature Center to find your perfect tree and a beautiful handcrafted decorated wreath, weekdays from 10am-4pm. On weekends, they will also host a Holiday Market filled with artists, makers, vendors, and tasty treats, Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 4pm.
PITMANS TREE FARM
1291 Parker Street, Marathon NY
(607) 745-4667
Put a little color in your Christmas with a colored live Christmas tree, available in a rainbow of colors, from Pitmans Tree Farm! Or, embrace your inner lumberjack and forge through the forest to fell your own tree!
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