Christmas tree suppliers encourage buying trees early because tight supply

BOONEVILLE, Mo. (KMIZ)

The global Christmas tree shortage could affects some Missourian's this year as they go out to buy a Christmas tree.

One Booneville tree farm, Starr Pines said now is the time to get your Christmas tree as some places across Mid-Missouri are in tight supply.

But when you get your tree it is important to remember safety and Maintenace.

Starr Pines Farm has been preparing for 10 plus years for the increase in demand for real Christmas trees.

Amanda harmon, one of the owners of Starr Pines, said although they aren't experiencing a shortage, the high demand could cause the best trees to run out quick.

"It's not so much a shortage as It's more of a tight supply," Harmon said.

When getting your tree this year, be prepared as the cost of Christmas trees has gone up for farms and suppliers across the state.

"Our expenses have gone up so we've had to modestly raise our prices as well," Harmon said.

If you get your tree early this year, it is important to maintain your tree from the moment you put it up.

"You will definitely need a stand and want to keep it full of water they drink lots and lots of water especially the first couple days," Harmon said.

Not only does watering your tree everyday help to maintain it, Gale Blomenkamp Assistant Chief with the Boone County Fire Protection District says it can also help avoid fires.

"When they say water them thats what they mean you need to water them everyday," Blomenkamp said.

Blomenkamp said it is important to check your lights before putting them on your tree to avoid fires.

"Check the lights for any frayed areas, make sure the lights have been UL tested and you're generally good to go," Blomenkamp said.