Christmas Tree Farmer Breaks Down the Dos and Don’ts of Buying a Real Christmas Tree (Exclusive)

Christmas Tree Farmer Shares Essential Tips for Buying a Real Christmas Tree

Justus Bischoff, a seasoned Christmas tree farmer with five years of experience, provides valuable insights into the dos and don’ts of purchasing a real Christmas tree exclusively to PEOPLE magazine. Luke Chinman, a writer at PEOPLE, delves into a fascinating conversation with Bischoff to uncover his top recommendations for the holiday season.

Bischoff, a 22-year-old resident of Oregon, immerses himself in the world of Christmas trees from July to December each year. Working diligently on a Christmas tree farm, he is instrumental in selecting and cutting down the millions of trees distributed across the United States for the festive season. Additionally, Bischoff captures his day-to-day life as a Christmas tree farmer on Instagram and TikTok, where his videos showcasing the farm’s operations and his quirky commentary on outfits attract thousands of followers.

In preparation for Christmas, Bischoff graciously imparts his wealth of knowledge on selecting the perfect tree for the holiday season to readers of PEOPLE magazine. One key piece of advice he shares is not to rush into buying a tree too early. While the temptation may arise post-Thanksgiving, Bischoff advises waiting until the first week of December. This timing ensures your tree remains fresh and vibrant throughout the entire Christmas period, with minimal needle shedding if cared for properly.

When it comes to choosing the ideal tree, Bischoff recommends paying attention to the tree’s interior health. While factors like variety and height are important, inspecting for falling needles is crucial to determine the tree’s longevity. By carefully examining the branches and interior of the tree while shopping, consumers can ensure they select a specimen that will grace their homes beautifully throughout the festive season.

An often overlooked aspect of tree care is proper hydration. Bischoff highlights that the most common mistake made by Christmas tree buyers is neglecting to water their tree adequately. Stressing the importance of regular watering, he explains that keeping the tree hydrated throughout December significantly prolongs its lifespan. Overwatering is unlikely to harm the tree, making consistent hydration key to enjoying a lush and vibrant tree until the end of the holiday season.

Bischoff’s anecdotes reinforce the idea that a well-cared-for tree can bring joy for months. He recounts a personal experience where a tree remained fresh and green for an extended period, solely due to regular watering. By sharing such stories, Bischoff aims to educate consumers on the simple yet crucial steps to ensure their Christmas trees stay healthy and vibrant from the moment they are brought home.

In conclusion, Bischoff’s invaluable tips shed light on the nuances of selecting and caring for a real Christmas tree. His passion for his craft and dedication to spreading awareness about proper tree care serve as a reminder of the joy and beauty that these evergreen symbols bring into our homes during the festive season. As readers gear up to choose their perfect Christmas tree, Bischoff’s expert advice will undoubtedly guide them towards making informed decisions, resulting in a picture-perfect holiday centerpiece that lasts throughout the holidays.